$126 Million Shortfall? How About Some MBTA T-shirts and Mugs?

1. I know there are some inspiring, engaged and just generally interested men out there in the neighborhood. But for some reason, we haven’t featured enough of them on Patch. We’ve got a weekly feature on Wednesdays called — usually just a fun Q&A with someone who lives or works in Charlestown. A character around town, or maybe someone flying under radar that warrants some attention. Please — recommend some future subjects! Recommend yourself. (I won’t tell anyone.) And be sure to read today’s column, a chat with MaryLee Trettenero, Charlestown’s own intuitive and psychic. Post some names in the comments here or email them to me: kristi.ceccarossi@patch.com.

2. Good news: There will be no fare hikes to close the MBTA’s $126 million budget shortfall this year. At least, General Manager Richard Davey has just publicly made that promise. Better news: The MBTA might start selling mugs, T-shirts and other merch (that stands for merchandise) to raise some extra funds. Officials haven’t released any specifics yet, but who wouldn’t want an MBTA T-shirt? Or mug. Hmm.

3. And it’s a really good thing T fares aren’t going up this year, because it has just been confirmed: Boston’s got the most expensive cab fares in North America. That’s right -- the most expensive. Radio Boston aired an interesting story about this on Monday. There are a few reasons for the high cost, the story explains, not the least of which is Boston’s inflated $2.80 per mile charge. In New York, that charge is $2; in D.C. it’s $150. Listen to the story.

4. Hats off to the Bull Dogs at Bunker Hill Community College. This Thursday marks the last home game of the season for the men’s and women’s basketball teams — who were playing this year, for the first time, on a home court. During half-time there will be a three-point shoot-out, and anyone in the audience can participate. Stop by, compete and win prizes. The Lady Bulldogs play at 5 p.m. The men’s team at 7 p.m.

5. Welcome, back, spring-like weather. We missed you yesterday. Today’s high: About 40 degrees!

For more info on what's happening around the neighborhood, check out our events calendar.