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Daily Buzz | MassArt to Recognize Artists Making a Difference

And, new Burlington business works on science of reclaiming rare-earth materials from scraps

Nicci Kadilak

Dec 14, 2023 — 4 min read

Hello, Burlington!

The All-Care eye Doctor and Relax the Back stores are closed to customers after a car drove off of Middlesex Turnpike and into their storefronts on Tuesday, as reported by BCAT. The crash was ruled accidental, and no injuries were reported.

Several updates were given at this week’s Board of Health meeting regarding stories the Buzz has reported on in the last several months:

Phoenix Tailings has moved into their space on North Ave. and is already extracting dysprosium, a rare-earth metal used in nuclear reactors, lasers, and other futuristic-sounding uses. Their mission, according to their website, is to be the world’s first clean mining and metals production company, eliminating this harmful waste from the environment while sustainably creating valuable materials.
The owners of the property at 101 Middlesex Turnpike—where Wendy’s, Blackbird Cafe, and UPS are located—are looking into redeveloping the property due to the constant state of pooled water at the corner of the parking lot. They attempted to clean the supply pipes, but that didn’t have the desired effect of allowing the water to drain. No details have yet been shared with the Board of Health; more to come about this at a future meeting.

This isn’t an update, but it’s cool: small custom confectionary business, Bliss Confections, is relocating to a larger space after the success of their made-to-order business. They’re located on Cambridge Street near the Billerica line, and their menu looks divine.

MassArt to Recognize Artists Making a Difference

This Saturday morning, you can join art lovers from all over the state to celebrate the Inaugural class of the Common Good Awards recipients from the Massachusetts College of Art and Design.

Six local artists from various disciplines will be honored this weekend, including the band Wilco, who founded the Solid Sound festival in the Berkshires; retired Boston Public Schools teacher & Art Director at Boys & Girls Club Dorchester Joseph Zaremba; and famed muralist Silvia López Chavez.

The goal of the awards is to recognize how art contributes to public and civic life, and that’s what spoke to me when I heard about this story. Think of the environment that was created in the Community Corner Pocket Park in Burlington’s Town Center when a mural was painted, a sculpture (from our very own Jonathan Sachs) was added, and an outdoor seating area was created. This is just one example of the impact art can have on everyday life. The Buzz is all about community connection, and we’re excited to spread the word about this innovative way to recognize the value of art in our communities.

Get your free ticket now for Saturday’s 11:30 AM event, and learn more about the awardees and the awards themselves below. This is the first of what hopes to be many Common Good Awards; look out for nomination information next summer!

Community Information

MassArt to Present Inaugural Common Good Awards

Nicci Kadilak • Dec 14, 2023

Massachusetts College of Art and Design believes artists have the ability to shape communities for the better. And the country’s first and only publicly funded art and design college is celebrating their 150th anniversary in that spirit: by recognizing artists that make a difference in people’s everyday lives.

Read full story →

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Today in Burlington

Municipal Meetings and Community Events

Looks like the Housing Authority meeting has dropped off the calendar.

12:30-3:00 PM - Bridge Club (Human Resources Building, 2nd floor)
4:00-4:30 PM - Story & Snack - ‘Tis the season for reindeer snacks and a story about the holidays for kids in grades PreK-3. (Library; Registration Required)
6:30 PM - Conservation Commission - Bob’s Discount Furniture would like to install a loading ramp at 51 Middlesex Turnpike; clearing the area for a tear down and new build at 220 Mill Street; Notice of Intent for 36 Cambridge Street for Salem Five Bank’s new building; and more. (Town Hall Main Hearing Room and Virtual)
7:00 PM - Library Trustees Meeting - Topics will include a keyless entry system, the staff development funding and upgrading the self-checkout stations, among much more. (Library)