Good Morning, Burlington!

I’m in such denial about the arrival of December that I forgot to announce the end of the November membership drive yesterday. But, lucky you! I’ve extended it through today. If you’ve been thinking about upgrading to a paying Hive membership, now’s the time to do it. The cost compared with the local newspaper is minimal, and the information you get is readable, entertaining, and relevant to you as someone who lives in, works in, or visits Burlington.

We’re also in the process of revamping our member perks—so there will be lots of cool reasons to be a member starting in January, like exclusive in-person and virtual meetups, early access to new and ongoing features, and columns & in-depth reports only for Hive members.

Through today, 10% of annual membership upgrades will go to People Helping People, the local food pantry helping those in need of food assistance. You’ll also be entered into a raffle to win one of three $25 gift cards to a local business, and “Set Your Own Annual Rate” members who name a rate of $100 or more will get some special Burlington Buzz merchandise. (I learned this week that you can do this even if you’re already a member, and even if you’re mid-cycle—so if you’re a member and want to pledge more than $60 annually, you can!)

Finally, we have been in discussions with one of our business partners to match Burlington Buzz’s contribution to People Helping People. Your contribution will go twice as far!

Special thanks to those who have already taken the plunge with the Buzz, recognizing the value of the work we put in to be sure you’re informed about—and connected to—your community.

We’ll announce raffle winners and the total amount contributed next week!

Burlington Ranks #1 in Suburbs With "Urban Vibe"

Burlington was in the news yesterday as our fair town was featured in a story on Boston.com. The self-storage company, StorageCafe, released an analysis of 40 Massachusetts suburbs, and Burlington’s name came out at the top of the list.

The study looked at a range of factors and determined Burlington’s business infrastructure, dining and recreation opportunities, education, health, and history combine to help Burlington achieve peak urban-suburban balance. The report specifically noted Lahey Hospital, which has grown into a world-class medical center, and Mill Pond, which provides a recreational haven despite the town’s robust development climate.

Today in Burlington

Municipal Meetings and Community Events

Friday, December 1

• 6:30 PM - Movie Night at Memorial School (Memorial students only)

Saturday, December 2

• 11:00 AM-12:00 PM - Scrapbook Holiday Wreaths - A holiday craft event for K-5 kids with their parents. (Library; Register)
• 11:00 - 3:00 PM - Car Seat Event - Burlington Police Traffic Unit will check car seats for secure installation as a free service to the public. If you need help getting a car seat, please ask when you come to this event. (Behind Kohl’s at 3 Great Meadow Road)
• 3:00-4:00 PM - Teen Event: Beading Snowflakes - Grades 6-12 make for yourself or as a gift for a friend this holiday season. (Library; Register)
• 7:00 PM - Holiday Wreath Workshop Fundraiser - learn how to create a wreath made with fresh balsam, berries, and ribbon. Proceeds benefit a local Burlington charity. (Made in Burlington; Tickets)

Sunday, December 3

• 4:00 PM - Tree Lighting - Gather together with our friends and neighbors to celebrate the 50th annual tree lighting ceremony. There will be entertainment, fireworks (weather permitting) and even a visit from Santa! Hosted by the Parks & Recreation Dept. (Burlington Common) [Inclement weather date: Tuesday, December 5]
• 4:30 PM - Wood Christmas Gift Workshop - create a set of 3 beautiful wood blocks to look like presents. Sign up with a friend and BYOB! (Made in Burlington; Tickets)

Sports and Activities

The boys’ hockey team plays an exhibition hockey match tomorrow at Masconomet Regional High School at the oddly specific time of 7:55 PM. Girls, who put up a record-setting season last year, host Billerica at 2:20 at the Ice Palace. Boys will be back at it at 2:00 on Sunday in Framingham.

Friday Funny

Guilty as charged.

Have a fabulous weekend, and I’ll see you on Sunday—unless you’re a Hive member, in which case I’ll see you tomorrow!

Nicci

Share this Buzz with someone who is thinking about moving to Burlington.