5 Things You Should Know This Week – July 20th

Mayor Wu’s Neighborhood Coffee Hour on July 20
Mayor Wu’s Neighborhood Coffee Hours offer a unique opportunity to speak directly with the Mayor and staff from City departments about City services and resident concerns. Through personal conversations and a suggestion box at each site, Mayor Wu looks forward to hearing how the City of Boston can improve parks, public areas, and City services. A neighborhood staple known for bringing the community together over a cup of coffee, Dunkin’ is back to fuel the conversation with iced coffee and donuts. Dunkin’ will also provide lawn game activities for attendees, gift card giveaways, and the opportunity for residents to win a raffle prize. Free flowering plants will be provided by the Boston Parks and Recreation Department, and fresh fruit will be provided by Star Market, while supplies last. This neighborhood event takes place on Monday, July 20th, from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. at Garvey Playground, 340 Neponset Ave, Boston, MA 02122
Support Colin’s Joy Project Giving Week
As the eighth anniversary of the accident that changed their family’s lives approaches, the McGrath family is once again hosting Colin’s Joy Project Giving Week to support the Child Life team at Boston Medical Center. The community is invited to purchase an item from the program’s Amazon wish list to help bring comfort, smiles, and a sense of normalcy to children receiving care at BMC. The annual giving week honors Colin’s memory while celebrating Sloane’s journey and the incredible work of the Child Life team supporting families during difficult times. Check out the list here.
Calling all History Buffs
If you’re a history buff—or just looking for a fun and interesting summer event—the JFK Presidential Library and Museum has a new exhibit worth checking out – Declaring the Revolution: America’s Printed Path to Independence. Get all the details here.
Free Family Fun
Watch a free movie at Castle Island! The DCR presents free family flicks on Wednesdays behind Fort Independence. Get the details here. Over at the Lawn on D, more more outdoor mives! Bring a blanket, order your favorite snacks and sips, and enjoy free outdoor movie screenings on The Grove’s giant LED screen. Takes place on Monday evenings. You can check out the full schedule here
Move over, Joey Chestnut!
Think you’ve got what it takes to scarf down a pile of hot dogs? Landmark Public House is hosting a Hot Dog Eating Contest on Saturday, July 25, at 3 p.m., and they’re looking for competitors. The winner will take home $500, plus hot dogs and buns. Contestants will have eight minutes to eat as many as they can. Even if you’re not competing, there will be a live DJ, giveaways throughout the event, and plenty of fun for spectators. Participation is free, but spots are limited. To sign up, email [email protected] before all the spots are gone.
Have a wonderful week! Thank you to our Caught in Dot readers and Neighborhood Partners for supporting our local journalism efforts!
Maureen Dahill is the editor of Caught in Southie and a lifelong resident of South Boston sometimes mistaken for a yuppie. Co-host of Caught Up, storyteller, lover of red wine and binge watching TV series. Mrs. Peter G. Follow her @MaureenCaught.

