SMAMS Board Member Chris Stanley (at left in photo) and Mt. Washington Bank (represented by CEO Ed Merritt) were honored recently as SMAMS' volunteer & business of the year at the Boston Main Streets' annual awards ceremony.  Both awards are richly deserved!

Chris has been a leader of SMAMS' efforts to redevelop Peabody Square for many years.  He was a key member of the team that negotiated with the MBTA for a complete rebuilding of Ashmont Station, and he played a central role in bringing a major commercial/residential building to the station site.  He led the SMAMS planning project that designed new street layouts for the Square, and later helped develop a pollution control project to reduce stormwater runoff from the new roadways.   Chris is also an active member of SMAMS' Economic Restructuring Committee, which recruits new businesses to the neighborhood.

Mt. Washington Bank is a strong supporter of SMAMS and all of Dorchester.  Founded in South Boston over 100 years ago, they've maintained an office in Dorchester's Adams Corner since 2003.  In 2007, they demonstrated their strong commitment to Dorchester by opening a new branch in Codman Square.  Mt. Washington has partnered with SMAMS on storefront renovation financing, and in 2007 they became one of our corporate sponsors.  They are similarly generous to other neighborhood groups, supporting countless local events and organizations through the Mt. Washington Charitable Foundation.

Bay State Bike Week 1: Dot-2-Dot Cafe hosts Biker's Breakfast May 13

As part of Mass. Bike Week 2008, SMAMS, Dot Bike and the Dot-2-Dot Cafe will host a breakfast for  all bicyclists on Tuesday, May 13, 7:00 - 8:30 AM.  Just show up on your bike and wearing a helmet, and treat yourself to continental breakfast from Dorchester's newest cafe!

The Dot-2-Dot is located at 1739 Dorchester Ave., just south of St. Mark's Church.  With plenty of seating, free wi-fi, and local artwork gracing the walls, it's the perfect spot to meet before or after a ride.  In addition to coffee & pastries, the D2D serves soups, sandwiches, and salads from around the world, in a menu that changes daily. 

Are you a seasoned bike commuter?  Always wanted to try biking to work but afraid of the traffic?  On Friday, May 16, both groups will band together for a convoy up Dot Ave into downtown Boston.    Experienced cyclists will lead the way; at ride's end at City Hall, you'll join other convoys from all over Boston for a rousing reception, another free breakfast, and loads of biking goodies.  Meet at the Peabody Square Clock Park (corner of Ashmont Street and Dorchester Ave.) at 6:45 AM - the convoy rolls at 7:00!  For more info click here or call 617-918-4456.