星期三, 3月 26, 2014

波士頓 Beacon St.大火 兩消防員喪生

  1. From Boston Fire Department Twitter

    Firefighter Kennedy was single and lived in Hyde Park. He was a veteran of the Marine Corps.
  2. Lt. Walsh was the son of a Watertown firefighter. Married with 2 boys, 1 girl- all under age 10. He lived in West Roxbury.
  3. Killed was Firefighter Michael R. Kennedy of Ladder Company 15 on Boylston St. 33yo, a 6 1/2 yr veteran. Also Veteran USMC
  4. Killed was Lt. Edward J. Walsh,Jr. assigned to Engine Company 33 on Boylston Street. 43 yo, a 9 1/2 year veteran.
  5. The Boston Fire Commissioner regrets to announce the Line of Duty deaths of two Boston firefighters killed today.


Statement of Mayor Martin J. Walsh

Tonight the City of Boston mourns the loss of two of our own. Lt. Ed Walsh and Firefighter Michael Kennedy lost their lives battling the nine-alarm fire on Beacon Street today.

Words cannot do justice to the grief that we feel tonight. Our hearts are heavy with the knowledge that these brave men gave their lives to protect the safety of our city and its people.

The men and women of the Boston Fire Department are the brave heroes who run towards the danger when others run away. A day like today makes us all too aware of what they are risking in the course of doing their jobs. They are heroes simply by virtue of accepting this duty. They put themselves in harm’s way so that others might be safe.

Thank you to the Boston Fire Department, Boston Police Department, EMS and all other first responders and volunteers for your heroic work today.

Our thoughts and prayers are with their families tonight as they face this terrible loss. We also hold close their fellow firefighters, who have lost friends as dear as brothers.


 STATEMENT OF GOVERNOR PATRICK

 BOSTON- Wednesday, March 26, 2014 – Governor Deval Patrick today released the following statement:

“My heart and my condolences go out to the families of the firefighters lost in the line of duty today, as well as to the entire Boston Fire Department. This terrible tragedy reinforces how we must be grateful every single day for the brave men and women who put themselves in danger day in and day out to keep us safe.”


 Statement from House Speaker Robert A. DeLeo.

“I am deeply saddened to hear of the two tragic deaths that have befallen the Boston Fire Department. Just outside the State House stands the Massachusetts Fallen Firefighters Memorial. Words on the memorial speak to the courage and duty of members of the fire service: ‘Whenever I am called to duty, wherever flames may rage, give me strength to save a life whatever be its age . . . And if according to my destiny, I must the earth depart, please bless with your protecting hand those closest to my heart.’ This tragedy speaks to the unwavering commitment and bravery that these firefighters shared with their predecessors, and I extend my fullest sympathies to the families and friends of the fallen, the Boston Fire Department, and Mayor Walsh and will pray for their souls.”

A Suffolk prosecutor with specialized training investigating fatal fires has been assigned to the death investigation arising out of the fire at 298 Boylston St. after responding to the scene earlier this afternoon.  He will work with Boston Police and Boston Fire investigators to determine the facts and circumstances of the deaths of Firefighter Michael Kennedy and Lt. Edward Walsh in the line of duty, including the cause and origin of the blaze.  A death investigation is standard procedure in any unattended or unnatural death; it does not necessarily suggest foul play.  Because this probe is still in its very early stages, I don't have any information on preliminary findings and I defer to Boston Fire on that point this evening.

On behalf of the District Attorney, our office extends its deepest condolences to the Kennedy and Walsh families, as well as to their brothers and sisters at Ladder 15, Engine 33, and the Boston Fire Department.  We are mindful that today's deaths occurred just a few blocks from the Vendome building, where nine Boston firefighters perished during a 1972 hotel fire.  A memorial to those men stands on the Comm Ave mall near Dartmouth Street and carries special significance on this very sad day.

BEACON STREET, BOSTON, CLOSED DUE TO FIRE

The Boston Transportation Department is advising drivers to avoid the Back Bay during

their evening commute home tonight.


• Due to a fire on Beacon Street between Fairfield and Exeter Streets, Beacon Street
is closed from the intersection of Arlington Street past the intersection of Fairfield Street. At this time, Beacon Street at Massachusetts Avenue remains open.

• Storrow Drive Eastbound is closed at the Fenway/Kenmore Exit.

• Commuters are being allowed to turn right from Commonwealth to Berkeley Street onto Storrow Drive Eastbound.

• Storrow Drive Westbound is closed at Leverett Circle.

BPHC to Launch NeighborWalk 2014 as a Warm-up to National Walking Day



Boston – Next Monday, the Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC) will kick off its annual NeighborWalk program just ahead of National Walking Day, an event observed around the country on April 2.  For the past ten years, BPHC’s NeighborWalk initiative has helped Boston residents of all ages get physically active through weekly community-based walking groups.  As a free and widely accessible resource, NeighborWalk has helped thousands of residents work toward their fitness goals.  Last spring alone, over four thousand Bostonians and nine community organizations participated in NeighborWalk. 
This year, the number of organizations hosting a NeighborWalk group has nearly doubled to seventeen partners in thirteen neighborhoods.  This growth will allow even more residents to lace up their sneakers and get walking this spring.
NeighborWalk groups begin on Monday, March 31st. To find a walking group in your neighborhood, visit www.bphc.org/NeighborWalk.
There is strong evidence that walking promotes good overall health.  Research shows that taking a brisk 30-60 minute walk several days a week can help prevent and manage chronic health conditions such as heart disease, osteoporosis, depression, and diabetes.  Walking also helps maintain a healthy body weight, improve strength and flexibility, and reduce stress.
“Adding walking to your daily routine is one of the simplest ways to improve your health – it’s easy, free, and accessible no matter where you are,” said Dr. Barbara Ferrer, executive director of BPHC.  “There are a lot of things you can do to make walking a bigger part of your daily life, and one of the easiest ways to get moving is to join a walking group. National Walking Day is the perfect time to make a renewed commitment to walking, and we want to help residents meet their goals by encouraging people to join one of our NeighborWalk groups.”
National Walking Day, which is sponsored each year by the American Heart Association, encourages Americans to lace up their sneakers and walk toward improved health.  To promote physical activity, BPHC is encouraging all Bostonians on April 2 to wear sneakers to work or school and to walk for a minimum of 30 minutes that day and every day. 
Incorporating more steps in your daily routine is simple.  When commuting, think about taking the MBTA instead of driving, as riding public transit usually involves more walking between destinations.  If you already ride the T regularly, try getting off a stop early and walking the rest of the way to your destination.  If you do drive, consider parking in the farthest spot in the lot or around the block to increase your step count.  Take the stairs instead of the elevator when you can.  Wear a pedometer or download an app, such as RunKeeper or MapMyWalk, to track your daily steps, and challenge yourself to gradually and safely increase your physical activity level.
Walking groups help to encourage a healthy lifestyle, as well as build social cohesion, enhance neighborhood safety, and increase utilization of parks and green spaces.  Walking with others can also be a source of motivation to stay active.
“The NeighborWalk Program is a great resource that allows our members to be more physically active by enjoying a nice stroll,” said Gail Klimas of the East Boston YMCA Walkers.  “We walk along a beautiful greenway and our walk leader helps participants track and log their steps. It’s a really great program.”

2014 NeighborWalk Host Organizations:
·         ABCD North End
·         East Boston YMCA
·         ETHOS
·         Franklin Park Tennis Association
·         Greater Boston Chinese Golden Age Center
·         Hawthorne Youth Community Center
·         HOCC Walkers
·         Hyde Park YMCA
·         Huntington YMCA
·         Joseph Smith Community Health Center
·         JP Tree of Life
·         Madison Park Development Corporation
·         MGH Charlestown
·         Upham’s Corner Health Center
·         Urban League of Eastern Massachusetts
·         West Roxbury YMCA
·         Roxbury YMCA

-BPHC-

Mayor Walsh and Boston Medical Center Launch "Prescribe-a-Bike" Subsidized Hubway Membership Program

Mayor Walsh and Boston Medical Center Launch "Prescribe-a-Bike" Subsidized Hubway Membership Program
Doctors refer low-income patients for $5 Hubway membership

BOSTON -- The City of Boston and the Boston Medical Center (BMC) announce the launch of "Prescribe-a-Bike," a landmark new partnership to address disparities in physical fitness and health, and to increase access to affordable transportation for low-income Boston residents. 

"There is no other program like this in the country," says Boston Mayor Martin J. Walsh, "Prescribe-a-Bike makes the link between health and transportation, and ensures that more residents can access the Hubway bike share system."

The City of Boston aims to enroll 1,000 low-income residents in the subsidized Hubway membership program.  

"Obesity is a significant and growing health concern for our city, particularly among low-income Boston residents," said BMC President and CEO Kate Walsh, adding that statistics show that close to one in four low-income Boston residents is obese, almost double the rate for higher-income residents. "Regular exercise is key to combating this trend, and Prescribe-a-Bike is one important way our caregivers can help patients get the exercise they need to be healthy." A recent study of the health benefits of the London bike share system found that using bike share had a positive overall impact on health, particularly among older users. 

Prescribe-a-Bike allows BMC medical professionals to write prescriptions for Hubway memberships. Patients pay only $5 for an annual membership, which entitles them to an unlimited number of trips on Hubway bikes, as long as the bikes are used for 30 minutes or less at a time. Subsidized members also receive a free helmet. 

Prescribe-a-Bike builds on the City’s highly successful existing subsidized membership program. To date, Boston has enrolled 897 subsidized members, who combined have taken 35,000 trips on Hubway bikes. 

To qualify for the subsidized Hubway memberships, participants must be Boston residents age 16 or older, and must either be receiving some form of public assistance or have a household income of no more than 400% of poverty level.

Interested residents can get a subsidized coupon by reaching out to their BMC medical professional or calling Boston Bikes at 617-918-4456.  

亞裔婦女健康會 三活動

All events are FREE (except the last one) and open to the public -

Thursday, March 27, 6-8pm (see attached flyer for more info)
ABC/AWFH AppreciASIANS at Tufts Medical Center (800 Washington Street, Boston 02111), Wolff Auditorium – a celebratory event to thank our supporters and partners with food, music and awards! RSVP at http://AWFH2014.eventbrite.com,
同儕領導得獎人:魯家珍,社區服務得獎人:甄碧鳯,最佳醫德得獎人:胡涵婷醫師

Friday, May 16, 8-4pm (see attached for more info)
5th AAPI Mental Health Forum “Healing through Arts: Breaking Silences & Lifting Spirits” at Simmons College, Linda K. Paresky Conference Center, CEU available
for more information, please email: COStaffDev@massmail.state.ma.us

Wednesday, May 21, 8-4pm (see attached for more info)
2nd State of Asian Women’s Health in MA at Tufts University, Sackler Building Room 114 (145 Harrison Ave., Boston 02111) - Jean Yang, the ED of Health Connector and Lisa Wong, Fitchburg Mayor will be the keynotes!
RSVP at http://2014awhinma.eventbrite.com

Saturday, June 7, 3-6pm
ExprASIANS talent show and fair at Boston Medical Center's Shapiro Ambulatory Care lobby to benefit Asian Breast Cancer Project
Interested performers, volunteers and exhibitors please contact cch@asianwomenforhealth.org for more information

Asian Women for Health
www.asianwomenforhealth.org

吳弭首度主持公聽會


波士頓市首名華裔市議員吳弭(Michelle Wu)昨(25)日下午首度以小企業,創業及創新小組委員會主席身分召開公聽會,約九名市府部會首長出席報告。吳弭稍後將進社區舉辦十場聆聽民意之旅,預定四月底做總結。
吳弭與第五區市議員Timothy McCarthy,第八區市議員Josh Zakim等三人,昨日在市府大樓五樓的市議會 Iannella會議廳主持會議。波士頓市長新設的“做吧(DoIT)”部門幕僚長Matt Mayrl上任才九個月,年僅31歲的鄰里發展部(DND)營運長Devin Quirk,企業發展組John Lynch,波士頓市長辦公室消費者事務及牌照主任Patricia Malone,市府牌照局理事Jean Lorizio,檢查局(ISD)局長Bryan Glasscock,新任消防局長等人,都出席公了聽會,分別說明各機構在處理市民申請牌照,許可上的目前做法,改善計劃等。
Matt Mayril指出,波士頓市長馬丁華殊(Martin Walsh)上任以來,積極的想為小企業出力,已指示市府各部門應用科技,簡化作業程序,修訂區域規劃規定,方便市民。
            Devin Quirk表示,DND麾下有小企業發展組,與波士頓市內的20個主街機構合作,為企業主提供包括申請牌照許可,了解政府運作,發給改善營運補助等的各種協助。
            在回應市議員普斯莉的認為該部門應以多種語言進社區宣傳時,Devin Quirk表示,該部門已儘量做到以多種語言為市民提供資訊,許多文件都已譯成多種語言,在民眾提出要求時,該部門也儘量配合。
檢查局(ISD)局長Bryan Glasscock表示,該局一年約需處理四萬四千份牌照,許可申請,每月有不下一千人造訪,辦理各種事務,有時的確忙不過來。不過該局已從一年半前起,啟動追蹤系統,以及網上申辦服務,應可逐步進行改善。
昨日出席會議的第一區市議員Salvatore LaMattina在離席前表示,他轄區內的一家企業,在申請牌照許可時,曾經遭遇鄰里發展部和檢查局之間不協調,令人生氣情況,找他幫忙,他才親自體會到小企業在牌照,許可上的申請手續,有各部會疊床架屋,不必要的繁瑣現象。
        昨日聆訊的主題有二,一為編號0386,有關小企業許可及牌照改革議案,一為編號0439,關於改善政府發放小企業牌照的內部處理問題。
            吳弭辦公室表示,吳弭將針對創業者,擁有企業者,在未來數週舉行跨越全市的“聆聽之旅”,從經營企業者的角度,深入了解在申請牌照、許可上,關鍵問題有哪些。
            吳弭辦公室歡迎有話要說者,有意見者打電話到617-635-3115,或發電郵到 ccc.sbei@cityofboston.gov

圖片說明:

            吳弭()與第五區市議員Timothy McCarthy(右),第八區市議員Josh Zakim(左)等三人,昨日在市府大樓五樓的市議會 Iannella會議廳主持會議。(菊子攝)

            吳弭昨日主持公聽會,條理分明。(菊子攝)

            波士頓市長新設的“做吧(DoIT)”部門幕僚長Matt Mayrl 鄰里發展部(DND)營運長Devin Quirk,昨日在市議會作報告。(菊子攝)

            檢查局(ISD)局長Bryan Glasscock做了頗長的解說。(菊子攝)

紐英崙藝術學會攝影班攝影展 3/30


紐英崙藝術學會將於3月30日(週日)下午一點半至三點,在該會愛丁堡羅街25號二樓會址,舉辦“攝影藝術培訓班學員攝影展”開幕式。
            紐英崙藝術學會在今年二月時,開辦長達十週的第一期攝影藝術培訓班,由梅國治、謝偉明、林卓成等三名老師授課。該班日前結業,訂三月廿九日起至四月十三日,舉辦攝影展,將於每日上午十一點至下午四點,在該會會址展出。
攝影班共有學員十多人,將展出五十多幅作品。該班學員表示,展出的作品是學員們旅遊世界各地時拍下的傑作,其中有的是初出茅廬者的“一試啼聲”,有的攝影界沙場老手與授課老師不相伯仲的成績展示。
紐英崙藝術學會會長梅宇國還為這次展覽中的老師梅國治,寫了篇“鏡有乾坤五十載”的介紹。
查詢展覽詳情,可洽謝偉明6173121777,梅國治,攝影班班長梅芬芳7813632567

昆市中心翻新計劃 將更換發展商


昆市最大的土地計劃,發展商換人了。昆士市長柯奇(Thomas Koch)廿四日正式發出“終止信(termination letter)”給街道工程公司(Street-Works),命令該公司把所有的發展計劃交出來,並釋出新昆市中心計劃16億元發展經費的剩餘資金。
The letter, while anticipated for weeks, marks the opening salvo in an official process to remove Street-Works as New Quincy Center’s developer of record. 
如果昆市府成功做到了更換發展商,將逼使街道工程公司吞下該公司已投資進這一項目的數以百萬元計的經費,並切斷該公司為重新發展昆市中心所訂定的無數合約。
接近市政府的人透露,昆市府的這一舉動,並不是完全沒有風險的。昆市府早前擔心引發法律戰,可能更進一步的延遲重新發展工作,一直猶疑是否要發出正式的未能達成使命通知書(default letter)。
根據日期註明為三月廿四日,收信人為街道工程負責人(principals) Kenneth NarvaJeffrey Levien的這封信,柯奇表示,街道工程公司未能達到雙方已同意在三月廿一日應達到的發展指標。
大約二個星期前,街道工程公司公開宣佈,將從這發展計劃中撤出。
柯奇在信中下令街道工程公司聘來從事新昆市計劃發展工作的主要實體公司,漢考克亞當公司(Hancock Adams Associates),在三十天內,把和發展計劃有關的任何安排,材料,或相關工作交出來。該信也通知了HAA,昆士市打算從該項目顧問托管戶口(consultant-escrow account),取回所有的剩餘資金。
新昆市中心是麻州最有野心的發展計劃之一,希望利用越來越受歡迎的市區化“生活-工作-玩樂“環境。一旦完工,預計可更新昆市中心的基礎設施,並增加大約三百五十萬平方尺的居住,零售及商用空間。

Patrick Administration Approves Economic Development Projects That Will Create and Retain 1489 Jobs in Communities Across the Commonwealth

WORCESTER – Wednesday, March 26, 2014 – The Economic Assistance Coordinating Council (EACC) today approved 12 projects for participation in the Economic Development Incentive Program (EDIP), which are expected to create 638 new jobs and retain 851 existing jobs, in addition to leveraging over $155 million in private investment and supporting construction projects across the Commonwealth.

Among the 12 approved projects are 3 manufacturing companies and 5 projects located in Gateway Cities. The EDIP program will facilitate the growth of these businesses, which will contribute to job creation and private investment in the state. The EACC meets on a quarterly basis to review applications.

“Supporting companies that are choosing to grow in Massachusetts is an important part and one of the Administration’s key economic development objectives to create economic opportunity in every region of the Commonwealth,” said Massachusetts Office of Business Development Executive Director Michael Hunter. “These investments will help these companies expand and continue to enhance the Massachusetts economy by making our communities stronger in the long term.”

The EDIP is the Commonwealth’s investment tax credit program for businesses. In 2009, Governor Deval Patrick and Housing and Economic Development Secretary Greg Bialecki, along with the Legislature, reformed the program and, as a result, the EDIP has become one of the most effective programs helping business grow in Massachusetts.

Since these changes, 187 projects have received approval, leading to the potential creation of 13,304 new jobs, the retention of 39,752 existing jobs and leveraging of over $4.8 billion in private investment. The EACC has assisted 102 manufacturers through the EDIP and has supported 87 projects in Gateway Cities. The EACC approved the following projects at today’s meeting:

Expansion Projects

Great Wolf Lodge of New England LLC (Fitchburg) – Great Wolf Resorts is a leader in the indoor water park hotel industry and currently employs over 5,000 people to operate its existing eight lodges across the United States.  The company has identified a former Holiday Inn in Fitchburg as an ideal location to introduce the family themed destination resort to the New England market.  A private investment of nearly $66 million will enable an extensive renovation to the existing hotel structure, addition of 162 hotel suites, a 30,000 square foot expansion to the existing indoor waterpark and installation of significant indoor retail and entertainment.  The Expansion Project will create 200 net-new full-time jobs in the Commonwealth.  The City of Fitchburg is supporting the project with a 20-Year Tax Increment Financing and Personal Property Tax Exemption valued at $16,464,575.  The EACC has approved $680,000 in EDIP Investment Tax Credits.

Gloucester Seafood Processing, Inc. & Great Republic LLC (affiliates of Jozac Corp. and Mazzetta Company LLC) (Gloucester) –   Founded in 1987, the Mazzetta Group of Companies is a fully integrated, direct importer, processor, and wholesale distributer of premium-frozen seafood to restaurants, retailers, and hospitality organizations across North America.  Due to a growth in business, the company has identified a vacant former seafood processing facility in Gloucester as a viable site for expansion to increase distribution in the United States, Canada and certain foreign markets.  A private investment of over $12.6 million will enable the purchase of the facility, building improvements and acquisition of processing and manufacturing equipment.  The Expansion Project will create 125 net-new full-time jobs in the Commonwealth.  The City of Gloucester is supporting the project with a 5- Year Tax Increment Financing Agreement valued at $13,892.  The EACC has approved $191,000 in EDIP Investment Tax Credits.

Detector Technology, Inc. (Palmer) – Founded in Massachusetts in 1983, Detector Technology, commonly referred to as “DeTech”, is a world-class leading manufacturer of products and systems for Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) specializing in Channel Electron Multipliers, Glass Extrusion & Fabrication and Motion Control Products.  The company has maximized its existing 20,000 square foot manufacturing space in Palmer and has identified a 9,200 square foot facility that will support its growth strategy.  An investment of over $1.9 million will facilitate the purchase of the building, and a two-story build-out of clear-span space into a state-of-the-art facility for the next generation model of fabrication.  The Expansion Project will create 10 net-new full-time jobs in the Commonwealth and retain the company’s existing 56 full-time employees in Palmer.  The Town of Palmer has supported the project with a 10- Year Tax Increment Financing Agreement valued at $26,046.  The EACC has approved $75,000 in EDIP Investment Tax Credits.

SXC Prescott Street Hotel, LLC (Worcester) –SXC Prescott Street Hotel, LLC, a single purpose entity of the SXC Hotel Company, plans to invest $9.2 million to construct a new, 100 guestroom, Hampton Inn and Suites adjacent to the Gateway Business Park and within sight of I-290 in Worcester.  The hotel will serve the mid-price market for business and leisure travelers to the Worcester DCU Center and growing Worcester Airport.  Additionally, the Expansion Project will create 30 net-new full-time jobs in the Commonwealth. The City of Worcester is supporting the project with a 7-Year Tax Increment Financing Agreement and Personal Property Tax Exemption valued at $755,825.  The EACC has approved $225,000 in EDIP Investment Tax Credits.

Trumbull Street Hotel, LLC. (Worcester) – Trumbull Street Hotel, LLC, a single purpose entity of the SXC Hotel Company, plans to invest nearly $32 million to construct a full-service, 158 guestroom, Renaissance Hotel in Worcester’s signature City Square area.  The hotel will be located above a new public parking garage, the development of which was triggered by a planned 350-unit market rate residential housing building that plays an integral role in the strategic development of City Square.  The hotel will contribute to the vibrancy of this development and will offer business and leisure travelers full amenities, including a restaurant, evening lounge, pool and 6,400 square feet of function space.  The Expansion Project will create 60 net-new full-time jobs in the Commonwealth.  The City of Worcester is supporting the project with a 10-Year Tax Increment Financing Agreement and Personal Property Tax Exemption valued at $1,861,556.  The EACC has approved $450,000 in EDIP Investment Tax Credits.

Local Incentive Only Projects (the following will not receive a state EDIP Investment Tax Credit):

Haemonetics Corporation (Braintree) – Headquartered in Braintree, Haemonetics is a global pioneer and market leader in the development and manufacturing of blood management solutions.  Due to a growing demand for its innovative products and services, the Company has realized a need to increase its space to accommodate a proposed technology center for Research and Development.  As part of its strategic expansion and growth plan, Haemonetics will be centralizing of R & D activities at its existing three Braintree facilities that consist of approximately 228,000 square feet.  Haemonetics will invest $10 million to renovate the company’s largest 180,000 square foot building into a technology center, while continuing operations at its other two facilities.  The Local Incentive Only Project will create 125 high-paying, full-time R & D jobs in the Commonwealth and retain 415 full-time employees in Braintree.  The Town of Braintree is supporting for the project with a 5-Year Local Property Tax Incentive Agreement valued at $911,668.

20 Castle Street, LLC (Great Barrington) – 20 Castle Street, LLC is a real estate development entity under contract to purchase a former fire station in Great Barrington that was erected in 1899.  The company plans to invest $4 million to restore and renovate this three-story building into a cultural center of Great Barrington that will provide retail, restaurants, a historical center and an educational facility for vocational training.  In addition to enriching the cultural, educational, social, and historical vibrancy of the Town, the project will facilitate growth of the local economy, including the creation of 7 net-new full-time jobs in Massachusetts.  The Town of Great Barrington is supporting the project with a 10-Year Tax Increment Financing Agreement valued at $44,107.

Steward St. Anne’s Hospital Corporation and Dickinson Development Corporation (New Bedford) – St. Anne’s Hospital Corporation of Fall River has partnered with Dickinson Development Corporation, a commercial real estate development firm, to construct a new 10,000 square foot ambulatory care facility in New Bedford.  A private investment of $3 million is expected for the purchase of a vacant lot and construction of the facility.  This development has further importance for the City of New Bedford as the construction on the vacant site will mark the completion of the transformation of Coggeshall Street that now includes a multi-tenant retail building, grocery store and restaurant establishments.  Although there are no permanent jobs being created by the developer, the new ambulatory care center is expected to hire 34 full-time employees upon occupancy.  The City of New Bedford is supporting the project with a 5-Year Tax Increment Financing Agreement valued at $143,569.

Omni Life Science, Inc. (Norton) -  Founded in Massachusetts in 1999,  Omni Life Science, Inc. is a global designer, manufacturer and distributer of orthopedic medical devices whose products are provided directly to orthopedic surgeons in hospitals around the world.  Due to increased demand for its products, the Company has realized a need for additional space.  The proposed project consists of leasing an estimated a 40,000 square foot building to be constructed, with additional land capacity for future expansion.  A private investment of $3.5 million is expected for the new facility that will accommodate corporate offices, manufacturing, distribution, research and development space and a state-of-the-art training room for surgeons and other visitors. The Local Incentive Only Project will enable the transfer of the company’s 70 Massachusetts-based employees and the creation of 15 net-new full-time jobs in the Commonwealth.  The Town of Norton is supporting the project with a 15-Year Tax Increment Financing Agreement valued at $595,567.  The company was approved by Massachusetts Life Science Center (MLSC) for a tax credit valued at $306,465 in February 2014.

Penske Truck Leasing Company (Norton) - Penske Truck Leasing Co. is a national provider of truck and transportation services, including truck housing, fueling, maintenance and repair.  The company currently has two existing Massachusetts locations in Taunton and Franklin and is proposing a third facility in Norton to better serve its customer base.  Penske Truck Leasing plans to invest $6 million to construct a new 15,000 square foot facility that will garage 68 fleet vehicles.  The project will create 11 net-new full-time jobs and retain its existing workforce of 5 employees for that site.  The Town of Norton is supporting the project with an 11-Year Tax Increment Financing Agreement valued at $421,907.

WHIP City Aviation, LLC (Westfield) - WHIP City Aviation is a development entity that was created to purchase, renovate and expand hangar space at Barnes Regional Airport.  The company will invest $1 million to purchase and upgrade five existing “T-hangars” that house 10-12 units each and construct a new T-hangar at the site.  A “T-hangar” is a type of hangar, named for its structural shape and is primarily used for private aircraft at general aviation airports because they are more economical than rectangular hangars.  By upgrading and expanding hangar space, this project aims to create an aviation clubhouse atmosphere for the general aviation community at the airport.  The City of Westfield is supporting the project with a 5-Year Local Incentive Agreement valued at $51,127.

Cynosure Inc. (Westford) - Cynosure is a leading developer and manufacturer of a broad array of light-based aesthetic and medical treatment systems used  in a diverse range of treatment applications such as hair removal, skin revitalization and scar reduction, as well as the treatment of vascular lesions.  The company recently acquired Palomar Medical Technologies located in Burlington, Massachusetts and has proposed an expansion of its existing facility to integrate the two companies.  A private investment of $6.7 million will enable the build out of office, research and manufacturing space as well as the creation of a connector between their current building and existing leased space.  The project is expected to create 55 net-new full-time jobs in the Commonwealth and retain the company’s existing 305 full-time employees.  The Town of Westford is supporting the project with a 5 Year Tax Increment Financing Agreement valued at $61,416.

星期二, 3月 25, 2014

紐英崙朱沛國堂迎新春 表揚建堂有功耆英


朱沛堂廿三日晚龍鳳樓慶祝馬年新春,頒獎牌表揚九十高齡宗親朱子均當年助建會所有功,封利是支持地方機構服務社區,吟詩歡歌彰顯朱熹後裔文采,約四百五十名宗、嘉賓,聚一堂,開心非常。
           當晚由紐英崙朱沛國堂顧問朱紹昌做慶會主持。開場前,來自紐約的朱氏宗親朱張曉曼,朱全勇,以歌星的打扮,聲音,獻唱暖場,別開生面。
主席朱健威,朱添達隨後依序致歡迎詞,答謝詞。朱健威的歡迎,言簡意賅,強調祝福。朱添達在稱呼嘉賓時,用上“尊敬的”做敬詞,敘述有紐約宗親遠道而來,用上有朋自遠方來“不亦樂乎“的成語,指今年出席率特別踴躍時,用宗親,社區的盛意拳拳令大會蓬蓽生輝來形容,讓台下出席者暗暗稱讚”出口成章,好嘢“。
朱添達還在會中即席吟詩一首“甲午奇恥未釋懷,右翼癲狗夏狂吠,若不此時清狼煙,安酬世昌鄧公志”。
            會上的出席嘉賓包括摩頓市長葛帝生,波士頓市不分區市議員吳弭,紐英崙中華公所主席阮鴻燦,駐波士頓臺北經濟文化辦事處處長洪慧珠,副處長陳銘俊、組長簡宏昇,新聞組組長朱永昌,波士頓僑教中心主郭大文,僑務委員馬滌凡等人。紐約朱氏宗親也有公所主席朱永益,顧問朱豐慶等十一人來賀。
嘉賓中的摩頓市長葛帝生,因好友阮鴻燦當上中華公所主席,今年成為波士頓僑團春宴常客,還每次從頭到尾用廣東話發言,搶儘風頭的搏得滿場采聲。
原本都是國語人的經文處處長洪慧珠,僑教中心主任郭大文,今年出席春宴雖然也全用廣東話發言,到底不如洋人說廣東話令人感到驚奇。
會說流利國語的波士頓市議員吳弭也感嘆,稱摩頓市長的廣東話,比她好多了。朱紹昌甚至打趣,建議廣教學校請摩頓市長當老師,向本地華裔後代示範如何學廣東話。
朱沛堂當晚特地表揚今年正好九十歲的朱子均,頒發獎牌做生日賀禮。朱紹昌指出,1952年朱沛國堂籌建會址時,朱子均與多名熱心宗親,在不到一個月內,就籌得所需款項,讓紐英崙朱氏後人進城時有了落腳處。他應宗親之請,特地為獎牌撰詩一首“愁沛國之華堂功存宗族,享九旬之上壽天賜遐齡”,以為祝賀。
會中,朱沛國堂還頒發新年利是給中華頤養院、中華耆英會、中華廣教學校、中華僑立學校。
當晚的娛樂節目由朱陳素瑜主持。有經文處處長洪慧珠獻唱“甜蜜蜜”,和僑務委員馬滌凡合唱一曲“萬水千山總是情”,有僑教中心主任郭大文邀中華公所財政翁宇才之妻合唱一首“外婆的澎湖灣”,也有華客符音合唱團獻唱“踏雪尋梅”等三首歌。
紐英崙朱沛國堂的歷屆主席,顧問,除前述各人外,包括朱平臻,朱星發,朱健平,朱自律,朱眾韶,朱瑞生等人,當晚幾乎都出席與盛。

圖片說明:

            朱沛國堂宗親敬酒。(菊子攝)

        朱沛國堂兩名主席朱健威(左一),朱添達(右二)頒發獎牌感謝宗親耆老朱子均(前左二)當年為籌建公所出力良多。朱紹昌(右三)為獎牌撰詩一首。(菊子攝)

            朱張曉曼的歌星打扮,台風,為春宴增添許多氣氛。(菊子攝)

            華客符音合唱團和摩頓市長葛帝生(Gary Christenson)(後右三起),紐英崙中華公所主席阮鴻燦,波市不分區市議員吳弭合影。(菊子攝)

            朱沛國堂主席朱添達夫婦(右)和姪媳婦,紐英崙中華資訊網路協會會長鄭茹,侄子朱堅文,也在春宴中歡聚。(菊子攝)

            朱沛國堂主席朱健威(右起),鄺坤珍夫婦和女兒朱蘇珊(左二),朱凌熙(左一)歡迎紐約來的嘉賓,顧問朱偉相,主席朱永益。(菊子攝)

            朱沛國堂主席朱健威(左三),鄺坤珍(右一)和紐約來的朱偉相(右二),主席朱永益(左一)等人一起恭喜朱子均。(菊子攝)

岩港劉沙林表演藝術中心200囚夢音樂會演繹王丹獄中詩


麻州岩港劉沙林表演藝術中心廿三日下午演出了一場“200囚夢(200 Dreams from Captivity)“音樂會。
            這場音樂會,源起於辦有慈善基金會的劉沙林和目前在愛默生學院任教的作曲家惠樂(譯音,Scott Wheeler)分享了她所欣賞,王丹當年在獄中寫的許多首詩。
            高羅打士時報(Gloucester Times)日前刊出一篇報導,指劉沙林認為王丹詩裏的美與力量,能讓人感受到王丹的氣節,以及他的儘管曾失去許多,卻依然對生命充滿愛,充滿希望,心懷寬念。她在讀詩時,不知流過多少淚。
            經由劉沙林的分享,惠樂也很感動。他們因此琢磨起把這些詩,變成音樂的事。先是兩人合作,從王丹詩集中,挑出幾首,譯成英文,惠樂再編曲,找來每年固定在劍橋市演出的半徑合奏樂團( Radius Ensemble)演奏,又邀請1986年成為中央音樂學院首名音樂女碩士的陳怡,創作了“風”,做開場曲,來演繹這場音樂會帶有的兩種文化交流涵意。
            歷經數年籌備,廿三日的這場“200囚夢”世界首演音樂會,以小提琴,大提琴,鋼琴,打擊樂器,演繹了“200“,”對飲“,”在春天的夜星“,”主題“,”冬夜“,”東風“,”相信“等七首詩。男中音Aaron Engebreth還演唱了其中一曲。
            陳怡的“風”,則由長笛,雙簧管,單簧管,巴鬆管,號角等樂器來演繹。
            下半場的音樂會,安排的是貝多芬七重奏,作品20號。
            獲有哈佛大學東亞系碩士學位的王丹,刻在台灣清華大學歷史系授課,廿三日這天,未能抽身來美。
            從去年底起,就和王丹等人一起籌備紀念天安門事件25週年的王軍濤,這天和妻女一起從紐約趕來,代表王丹出席。他在音樂會開場前,應主持人邀請上台,當著逾百名出席者指出,今年是天安門事件25週年,各地民運人士已開始以“天下圍城”為號召,進行各項活動。這場音樂會因此格外有意義。
            目前住在華盛頓的當年清華大學高自聯領袖李恒青,住在紐約的當年政法大學對話團團長項小吉,吉林學生領袖金岩,這天都和王軍濤一起出席。
            華人社區出席音樂會者,絕大部分是大波士頓中華文化協會成員,以及建築師王本仁,新英格蘭台灣商會會長許炳煌,紐英崙中華專業人士協會前任董事長王世輝等人。

圖片說明:

            Scott Wheeler(左起),劉沙林,王軍濤在音樂會中場接受獻花。(菊子攝)

            半徑合奏樂團( Radius Ensemble)謝幕。(菊子攝)

            王軍濤(右前)在音樂會前代表王丹致詞。(菊子攝)