Harvard Athletics recently welcomed more than 1,100 guests—including eight generations of Harvard-Radcliffe rowers, coaches, and supporters—for a landmark celebration marking the completion of the four-year Boathouse Renewal Project along both banks of the Charles River. Held on Saturday, May 10, the event underscored the enduring tradition, community, and history of excellence that define Harvard-Radcliffe Rowing.
The comprehensive renovations of the iconic Newell (1901) and Weld (1906) Boathouses reflect a significant milestone in Harvard Athletics' commitment to preserving and enhancing its athletic facilities. Thoughtfully designed to maintain each building's architectural charm and storied legacy, the upgrades also bring the boathouses into the modern era—supporting the needs of today's varsity crews, recreational rowers, and intramural programs.
The day's festivities captured the spirit of reverence and renewal: open houses with champagne toasts honored the 33 named spaces and collective efforts behind the project; six new boats were dedicated; and more than 400 alumni returned to the water in emotional tribute to their time on the river. The celebration concluded with an elegant evening at the Bright-Landry Hockey Center, where Harvard University President Alan Garber, Edgerley Family Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Sciences Hopi Hoekstra, and John D. Nichols '53 Family Director of Athletics Erin McDermott delivered moving reflections on the power of rowing and athletic participation within the broader Harvard experience.
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Harvard Athletics Celebrates ‘Once-in-a-Century’ Boathouse Renewal Project
Harvard Athletics recently welcomed more than 1,100 guests—including eight generations of Harvard-Radcliffe rowers, coaches, and supporters—for a landmark celebration marking the completion of the four-year Boathouse Renewal Project along both banks of the Charles River. Held on Saturday, May 10, the event underscored the enduring tradition, community, and history of excellence that define Harvard-Radcliffe Rowing.
The comprehensive renovations of the iconic Newell (1901) and Weld (1906) Boathouses reflect a significant milestone in Harvard Athletics' commitment to preserving and enhancing its athletic facilities. Thoughtfully designed to maintain each building's architectural charm and storied legacy, the upgrades also bring the boathouses into the modern era—supporting the needs of today's varsity crews, recreational rowers, and intramural programs.
The day's festivities captured the spirit of reverence and renewal: open houses with champagne toasts honored the 33 named spaces and collective efforts behind the project; six new boats were dedicated; and more than 400 alumni returned to the water in emotional tribute to their time on the river. The celebration concluded with an elegant evening at the Bright-Landry Hockey Center, where Harvard University President Alan Garber, Edgerley Family Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Sciences Hopi Hoekstra, and John D. Nichols '53 Family Director of Athletics Erin McDermott delivered moving reflections on the power of rowing and athletic participation within the broader Harvard experience.
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Laredo Approves First Phase of $45M Sames Auto Arena Upgrade Plan
Laredo discussed this week a five-year improvement plan to renovate, repair and modernize Sames Auto Arena to improve safety and attract performing talent in the long run.
A staff report given by city of Laredo Budget Director Jesus Esparza and ASM Global Regional General Manager of Sames Auto Arena James Smith informed city leaders about the state of the 23-year-old arena. High-priority upgrades under consideration include the HVAC system, seating replacement and a dasher board system to ensure the arena remains safe and operational.
Regarding the seating, Smith said repair parts for the 23-year-old seats cannot be attained because they are outdated and a switch to new seats is required. He said up to 150 seats are unusable for events, and the dasher board system still in use is repaired in-house by welding or improvised with wood or brick to remain installed. The critical repairs would be included in the 2025 budget.
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From Drained to Dazzling: Brook Park’s Indoor Pool Getting a Full Makeover
The reopening of Brook Park’s indoor pool is no longer just a plan -- it’s a fully funded, energy-efficient project that could begin construction within months, pending City Council approval.
Mayor Edward Orcutt announced in his recent State of the City address that the city has completed repairs to the natatorium’s roof and walls and has more than $2.5 million set aside for additional renovations and operations.
That funding includes a $1 million grant from the state and years of city savings, which Orcutt said will allow Brook Park to pay for the entire project in cash.
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