Baker-Polito Administration Announces New Broadband Grant Program

Baker-Polito Administration Announces New Broadband Grant Program

Flexible grants will accelerate the construction of municipally-owned broadband networks in rural communities

BOSTON – Today the Baker-Polito Administration announced the Last Mile Infrastructure Grant Program, a new, flexible grant program designed to speed the deployment of broadband internet networks in more than 40 unserved Western and Central Massachusetts communities.

Under the new Last Mile Infrastructure Grant Program, the Baker-Polito Administration will make grants directly to rural communities currently unserved by high-speed internet access, for the design, engineering, and construction of publicly-owned broadband networks. The grant program will award up to $20 million in capital funds directly to Last Mile towns, and will be administered by the Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development.

“There is no one-size-fits-all solution to the broadband gaps currently facing rural Massachusetts towns, so our administration is empowering communities to pursue the solutions that are most appropriate for them,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “We want broadband solutions to be flexible and responsive to local needs, regardless of whether our local partners pursue municipally-owned networks, public-private partnerships, or alternative technologies. The new Last Mile Infrastructure Grant Program advances our administration’s commitment to tackling broadband connectivity challenges with collaboration, flexibility, and problem-solving.”

“This new grant program will build on our reforms to the Last Mile broadband program, and speed the construction of locally-owned broadband networks,” said Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito. “Western and Central Massachusetts communities have told us they want a more nimble and more responsive Last Mile program. We have taken their feedback to heart, and through this new grant program, we will accelerate the pace of progress on local Last Mile broadband challenges.”

“We are committed to helping every town that wants to pursue high-speed internet access, pursue a path forward to reliable, sustainable, affordable broadband,” said Housing and Economic Development Secretary Jay Ash. “We look forward to continuing our deep engagement with local and legislative stakeholders, as we work to deliver on our shared priorities.”

The Last Mile Infrastructure Grant Program will disburse both municipal construction allocations -- local construction budgets established by the Massachusetts Broadband Institute (MBI) at MassTech -- and towns’ so-called professional services allocations. Local professional services funds were previously reserved for the design and engineering of local networks, and were previously held back and expended directly by MBI, on behalf of unserved communities. Under the new grant program, EOHED will combine these two allocations into a single award, giving Last Mile towns the flexibility to pursue engineering, and construction solutions for municipally-owned networks directly, as they would with other local infrastructure projects.

The program is modeled on EOHED’s successful MassWorks Infrastructure Program, a flexible, competitive grant program that funds local infrastructure projects that unlock economic growth. In addition, EOHED and the MBI will continue to assist municipalities that wish to partner with private broadband providers, or explore alternative technologies. MBI will continue to provide design and engineering services to communities that prefer to work with the organization.

The Last Mile Infrastructure Grant Program received approval today from the MBI’s board of directors. EOHED anticipates opening the grant program for applications next week, pending the approval of the Executive Committee of MassTech’s board of directors.

The Baker-Polito Administration is committed to significantly increasing broadband access under the Last Mile Broadband project. In May 2016, the Baker-Polito Administration introduced a new Last Mile leadership team, and a new framework to accelerate implementation of broadband projects in unserved or underserved communities by empowering local partners through a more flexible, community-based approach. Since last May, the Baker-Polito Administration has supported efforts to expand broadband coverage to nine partially served towns, advanced a wireless pilot program in Middlefield, and approved grants to bring service to seven unserved towns: Alford, Otis, Warwick, Hinsdale, Lanesborough, West Stockbridge, and Mount Washington. The Administration is currently assisting several towns in evaluating potential public-private partnership proposals, resulting from an RFP issued late last year.

聯邦總檢察長警告庇護城市要刪經費 波市長稱那是不負責任

(Boston Orange 周菊子波士頓綜合報導) 美國總檢察長杰夫(Jeff Sessions)持續川普政府的強硬態度，今(3月27)日宣佈，所謂”庇護城市(sanctuary cities)”如果不和聯邦政府移民局合作，將失去某些聯邦經費。

杰夫是在白宮記者會上做此宣佈。他說各州及市鎮應該仔細考慮他們拒絕執行聯邦移民法所造成的損害。他勸告州及地方政府遵循這些聯邦法。

麻州內已表態要做”庇護城市”有波士頓市，牛頓市等城市。波士頓市長馬丁華殊(Martin Walsh)在下午5點多時發表聲明，表示做為市長，他將持續確保波士頓市居民的安全，福祉。聯邦政府以刪減地方市鎮經費來威脅，是不負責任的破壞性做法。

            美國國土安全局最近點名波士頓市，劍橋市，尚莫維爾市(Somerville)，北安普頓(Northampton)，以及安赫斯特(Amherst)等城市啟動了只和美國移民及海關執行局做有限合作的政策。麻州內還有其他社區也採取了類似政策。

            “庇護城市”並不是一個法律名詞，而是政治術語，用來形容市鎮拒絕協助聯邦移民局，以確保移民不會怕和警察或地方當局合作。

            雀喜市(Chelsea)這庇護城市，44%的人口都是在美國境外出生的。該市經理Thomas Ambrosino表示，該市領的1100萬元聯邦經費，大部分都用來支持執法人員，聘用老師，以及維持課後項目。不論聯邦政府怎麼說，或祭出什麼政策，該市的態度不會改變。

            杰夫表示，司法部將要求尋求或申請司法經費的市鎮澄清是否遵循了聯邦移民法。

STATEMENT FROM MAYOR MARTIN J. WALSH

STATEMENT FROM MAYOR MARTIN J. WALSH

BOSTON - Monday, March 27, 2017 - Mayor Martin J. Walsh today released the following statement: "The safety and well-being of our residents is, and will continue to be, my top priority as Mayor of Boston. The threat of cutting federal funding from cities across the country that aim to foster trusting relationships between their law enforcement and the immigrant community is irresponsible and destructive."

MASSACHUSETTS DEMOCRATIC PARTY STATEMENT ON TRUMP ADMINISTRATION’S VOW TO RIP FUNDING FROM SANCTUARY CITIES

MASSACHUSETTS DEMOCRATIC PARTY STATEMENT ON TRUMP ADMINISTRATION’S VOW TO RIP FUNDING FROM SANCTUARY CITIES

BOSTON – Massachusetts Democratic Party Chair Gus Bickford released the following statement in response to the announcement today from Attorney General Sessions that sanctuary cities stand to lose their federal funding:

“Once again, the Trump Administration is showing its true colors by threatening to illegally strip cities of vital federal funding because they refuse to use local law enforcement to round up immigrants on a whim.

“President Trump continues to ignore the fact that the United States is a nation of immigrants. Instead, he has installed white supremacists like Steve Bannon in the White House and established an agenda that pits Americans against each other, exploits immigrants, and undermines our American ideals of inclusion and diversity.

"The President is trying to force our cities to join him in his bullying of immigrants and their families. Massachusetts Democrats stand with our sanctuary cities and immigrants across our Commonwealth, and we will help them fight this unconstitutional threat."

THE 32ND ANNUAL R.I. STATEWIDE HISTORIC PRESERVATION CONFERENCE 4/29

THE ECONOMICS OF HISTORIC PRESERVATION:

THE 32ND ANNUAL R.I. STATEWIDE HISTORIC PRESERVATION CONFERENCE

ON SATURDAY, APRIL 29 IN WATCH HILL AND BEYOND

The 32nd Annual Rhode Island Statewide Preservation Conference will take place in Watch Hill on Saturday, April 29. Organized by the Rhode Island Historical Preservation & Heritage Commission (RIHPHC), the conference theme is “The Economics of Historic Preservation.” With its turn-of-the-century cottage colony, commercial corridor, conservation land, and celebrated landmarks, Watch Hill is a distinctive seaside community. Historic preservation is essential to its sense of place and to its bottom line.

Westerly and Charlestown are the co-host communities for this year’s conference. Guided walks through Watch Hill and boat tours off the coast will cover economic development, design in historic districts, and local history. Tours further afield will visit Wilcox Park, the North End, Downtown Westerly, the Babcock-Smith House Museum, and sites associated with Westerly’s granite industry. A Charlestown tour will travel down Route 1 to the resort community of Quonochontaug, Fort Ninigret, and the village of Cross Mills. Panel presentations will look at “The Big Picture” of preservation and economic development, the important role of the cultural sector in the state economy, and how historic religious institutions contribute to local economies. Additional workshops will take on architecture and furniture, climate change and coastal landscapes, and historic parks.

At the Watch Hill Chapel, Donovan P. Rypkema, a leading historic preservation and real estate consultant, will deliver the keynote speech titled “The Economics of Historic Preservation—Recent Lessons from the U.S. and Beyond.” He will share some of his recent research and introduce his forthcoming study of the impact of historic preservation—from redevelopment projects to heritage tourism—on Rhode Island’s economy. Rypkema will be preceded by greetings from Senate Minority Leader Dennis L. Algiere, Edith Eglin (Watch Hill Chapel Society), Deborah Royce (Ocean House), Valerie Talmage (Preserve Rhode Island), Maia Farish (Roger Williams University), and RIHPHC Executive Director Edward F. Sanderson.

The 32nd Annual Statewide Preservation Conference invites the public to learn about new initiatives, discuss issues, and network with experts in the field of historic preservation. The registration fee is $50, which includes morning coffee, lunch, and a closing reception at One Bay Street, the recently restored Lanphear Livery Stable. The deadline for online registration is April 17. Walk-on registration may be available on site on April 29. To register or request more information, call 401-222-2078, or visit our websitehttp://preservationconferenceri.com/. 

Funding for the conference is provided by a National Park Service grant administered by the RIHPHC, with support from lead sponsors Town of Westerly, Town of Charlestown, Watch Hill Fire District, Amaral Revite, Ocean House, One Bay Street Center, Royce Family Fund, The Washington Trust Company, Watch Hill Conservancy, and Youngken Associates. Additional support comes from sponsors 1772 Foundation; A4 Architecture + Planning; AIA/RI; APA RI; Barbara Sokoloff Associates; BETA Group, Inc.; Brady Sullivan Properties; Brewster Thornton Group Architects; Brown Center for Public Humanities; Cornish Associates; DBVW Architects; The Damon Company; Dimeo Construction Company; E.F. O’Donnell & Sons; E.W. Burman; Epsilon Associates; The Foundry; Gilbane, Inc.; Gray & Pape, Inc.; Heritage Restoration, Inc.; Historic New England; Kay Hall Lofts; KITE Architects; Martone Service Company; Michael McKinley & Associates; Mott and Chace Sotheby's International Realty; Newport Architectural Forum; Northeast Collaborative Architects; Ocean House Marina; PAL; Paolino Properties; The Preservation Society of Newport County; Preserve Rhode Island; Providence Preservation Society; R.I. Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects; Roger Williams University; Salve Regina University; Sandra Liotus Lighting Design, LLC; Starkweather & Shepley Insurance Brokerage Inc.; Starr Development; Taylor Interior Design; Tecton Architects; The Thomas P. Sculco & Cynthia D. Sculco Foundation; VHB; Ventrone Architecture; Weekapaug Inn; West River Center; and Ken Woodcock.

陳樂角逐緬因州路易斯頓市長發公開信反對富人減稅

This week I met with Lewiston homeowners, and together we launched a petition against the tax breaks for the rich that are driving up our property taxes and decimating funding for Lewiston’s city services. Schools, roads, public safety workers -- our municipal services are the backbone of our community. We shouldn’t be forced to sacrifice them to foot the bill for more tax breaks for the rich. By restoring revenue sharing, we’ll finally receive the $3.6 million that we deserve for investment right here in Lewiston. Join us and sign the petition here.

Sitting around the Grandmaisons’ kitchen table, I heard from seniors, landlords, retired teachers, and young families who were all sick and tired of a tax system that favors the wealthy. I was inspired by their commitment to Lewiston and I’m heartened that our community wants to take things into their own hands by demanding that the state pay its fair share of municipal revenue sharing. Join us. The last time we launched a petition like this, it was around pay-as-you-go trash. We won that battle less than six months after launching. It’s time to come together again to push back against LePage’s legacy of giving tax breaks to the rich while cutting support to cities and towns like Lewiston. Those kinds of policies just don’t make sense to me, and they don’t make sense for our city. You can catch up with our whole conversation here, and sign the petition here. And if you have questions, or want to talk more about this, please email me. I would love to hear what you think. Ben We believe in clean elections, so we’re not accepting any donations over $100. To contribute to our people’s campaign, please click here.

Baker-Polito Administration Announces $450,000 for Woodstove Rebate Program

Baker-Polito Administration Announces $450,000 for Woodstove Rebate Program

WORCESTER – The Baker-Polito Administration today announced $450,000 in funding for the 2017 Commonwealth Woodstove Change-out Program, which provides rebates to homeowners who replace older, inefficient woodstoves with cleaner, EPA-certified wood and pellet stove models that use less fuel and reduce energy costs. The announcement of this most recent investment was made by state energy and environment officials during a tour of Enchanted Fireside in Worcester.

“The Woodstove Change-Out Program makes clean, cost-effective heat more accessible to residents across Massachusetts of all income levels,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “Through this strategic investment, our administration can help spur the adoption of new, highly efficient technology that improves air quality and reduces our greenhouse gas emissions.”

 “Through the Woodstove Change-Out Program, Massachusetts families are able to recognize savings and improve the air quality inside and outside their home,” said Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito. “Our administration has made it a priority to ensure everyone in the Commonwealth, regardless of income, has access to the economic and environmental benefits of more energy efficient technologies.” 

“This successful multi-agency partnership helps improve heating efficiency for homeowners while improving overall air quality and public health,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Matthew Beaton. “By funding The Woodstove Change-Out Program, we are making an important investment in reducing our carbon footprint and boosting local businesses that sell renewable energy technologies.”

Launched in 2012, the Commonwealth Woodstove Change-Out Program is administered by the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC), with assistance from the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) and the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources (DOER).

Previously, the program has helped more than 1,400 residents swap out their dirty, inefficient stoves for newer, cleaner models, with nearly 500 of these rebates going to low- and moderate-income residents.

“We are happy to help Massachusetts residents save money through the installation of efficient wood and pellet stove models,” said MassCEC CEO Stephen Pike. “By expanding access to newer, cleaner heating technology we are able to assist the Commonwealth in improving air quality and help residents reduce their heating costs.”

“By collaborating across state government, the Woodstove Change-Out program gives Massachusetts homeowners access to clean, affordable, and highly efficient heating systems,” said Department of Energy Resources Commissioner Judith Judson. “By reducing energy use and emissions, this program allows residents across the Commonwealth to play a part in meeting our shared emissions reduction goals.”

“Replacing older woodstoves with EPA-certified models that burn more cleanly and efficiently is a practical way to help reduce pollution and improve air quality across the Commonwealth,” said MassDEP Commissioner Martin Suuberg.

EPA-certified stoves on average require one-third less wood than older models to produce the same amount of heat, while releasing 70 to 90 percent less particulate matter, which has been shown to exacerbate health conditions like asthma, heart disease and lung cancer. Residents installing new stoves can expect to save an average of $5,000 over the lifetime of the stove. Each woodstove switched out for a newer model is equivalent to eliminating the particulate emissions from five old diesel trucks.

While the majority of program participants purchase new woodstoves, over 40 percent opted for pellet stoves in 2016. In addition to burning very cleanly, these modern appliances automatically feed fuel into the fire, and many have built-in thermostats that allow owners to adjust the room temperature just as they can with central heating systems.

In this year’s program, standard rebates will range from $500 to $1,750, depending on the emission levels and type of stove purchased.  Rebates from $1,500 to $3,000 are available for residents who meet certain income requirements. For the first time this year, the program will provide higher incentives for stoves that achieve a superior efficiency level.

To qualify for a rebate, a resident must have an operational, non-EPA-certified woodstove. To apply, the resident should visit a participating woodstove retailer or contact a participating stove professional such as a chimney sweep, who will handle the rebate application process on the residents’ behalf. Residents can find a local participating woodstove professional by viewing the list of woodstove dealers who have registered to participate.

“Upgrading to an EPA-certified wood stove increases energy efficiency for homeowners and reduces harmful pollutants in our air.  These rebates lower costs for consumers and benefit all residents of the state with cleaner air and environment,” said Senate President Stan Rosenberg (D-Amherst).

“I hope that homeowners will take advantage of the Woodstove Change-out Program and upgrade, save, and innovate for the future,” said Senate Majority Leader Harriette L. Chandler (D-Worcester). “Thank you to the Baker-Polito Administration for its continued efforts to protecting the environment and spreading innovation across the Commonwealth.”

“This program allows homeowners to not only save money on heating costs, but also to realize many important environmental and health benefits,” said House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading). “I encourage anyone with an older woodstove to look into this program to see if they qualify for a rebate.”

“MassCEC’s program provides crucial support for residents who want to swap out their old, dirty woodstoves for cleaner, more efficient models,” said State Representative Thomas A. Golden, Jr. (D-Lowell), Chairman of the Joint Committee on Telecommunications, Utilities, and Energy.  “I applaud the Baker administration for once again supporting the rebate program, and commend DEP and DOER for their efforts in making this program a success.”

“Replacing these wood stoves is an important step to reduce emissions and save on heating costs, but a step that can be out of reach for household budgets,” said State Senator Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester). “This program, for a very modest investment, can make the difference between a stove being replaced or not being upgraded.”

"I am exceptionally grateful for the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center’s 2017 Woodstove Change-Out Program and the tremendous work they do to provide the opportunity for families and homeowners in my district to use less fuel as well as reduce their energy costs,” said State Representative James O’Day (D-Worcester).

Rebate applications will be accepted until August 21, 2017.           

“The Massachusetts Chimney Sweep Guild applauds the Baker Administration for their efforts to reach the wood burning public with this important program,” said Dave Hannah of the Massachusetts Chimney Sweep Guild. “Replacing older polluting wood stoves with new, clean burning stoves increases efficiency, which results in less wood use and a cleaner burn, ultimately saves money and helps our environment.”

Funding for this year’s program comes via DOER’s Alternative Compliance Payments and MassCEC’s Renewable Energy Trust. The trust was created by the Massachusetts Legislature in 1997 and is funded by a systems benefit charge paid by electric customers of investor-owned utilities in the state as well as funding from municipal electric departments that have opted to participate in the program.

This funding builds upon the Baker-Polito Administration’s ongoing efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and support the Commonwealth’s vibrant clean energy innovation sector. In September 2016, Governor Baker signed an Executive Order which lays out a comprehensive approach to further reduce greenhouse gas emissions, safeguard residents, municipalities and businesses from the impacts of climate change, and build a more resilient Commonwealth. 

Mayor Setti Warren’s Statement in Response to AG Jeff Session’s “Sanctuary Cities” Press Conference

Mayor Setti Warren’s Statement in Response to AG Jeff Session’s “Sanctuary Cities” Press Conference

Newton, MA – Newton Mayor Setti Warren released the following statement following the Attorney General’s press conference on “sanctuary cities.”

“With all due respect to the Attorney General, Jeff Sessions doesn't decide what happens in Newton. Instead of issuing threats from Washington, DC, the Trump Administration might want to take a look at our community-based process that brought proponents of sanctuary cities and supporters of Donald Trump together. The Welcoming City ordinance we passed in Newton brought together people of many perspectives with the ultimate goal of keeping our community safe.

We will not be a community where police are part of any "deportation force" or where immigrants are fearful of being torn from their families for minor offenses. We will be a community where all feel welcome and safe, no matter their immigration status. There was overwhelming support from the Newton community to affirm these values through an ordinance and the Welcoming City ordinance will remain the law of the land here.”

波士頓華埠3月24日晚大火 虛驚一場

星期五，03/24/2017，下午七時半左右，唐人街在必珠街及華盛頓街交界的大廈發生煙霧瀰漫火警，火警鐘長鳴，響遍整座大廈，住客緊急疏散到街上，約八部消防車到場，四部救護車在塲準備，街道被封鎖。撓攘到九時還未撤離，幸好沒有有人受傷，可算是虛驚一場。

中華公所--唐人街治安巡邏隊

謝中之

波士頓國民黨聚會紀念總理慶青年節 籲投票選黨主席

左起，僑教中心主任歐宏偉，僑務諮詢委員馬滌凡，波士頓前任常委李伍綺蓮，波士頓安良工商會鄧北海，國民黨波士頓分部現任常委張韻蘭，經文處副處長陳銘俊，評議委員范紀琛，前任常委鄭月華，王競芳，執委李若蘭。(周橘子攝)

            (Boston Orange 周菊子波士頓報導) 中國國民黨波士頓分部3月25日舉行該黨總理國父孫中山先生、總裁蔣中正逝世紀念大會，兼慶青年節，並提醒黨員參加黨主席改選投票。

            中國國民黨波士頓分部每年3月都舉辦活動，紀念國父孫中山於1925年3月12日，總裁蔣中正於1975年4月5日辭世，以及中國同盟會於清朝宣統三年3月29日在黃花崗起義，才奠定了中華民國建立基礎。

            3月29日這個日子，後來也被中華民國改用於陽曆，訂為青年節。

            中國國民黨波士頓分部常委張韻蘭當天在會上簡述了國父孫中山為建國奔走，總裁蔣介石率軍北伐、抗日，以及青年節由來的歷史，繼而提醒該分部黨員，黨中央2017年的黨主席選舉，訂5月20日舉行，有意投票者須於3月31日前繳清黨費，一封信只能放一張選票等細節。她也說明，依照黨部規定，波士頓也將成立”選舉委員會”處理相關事務。

            當天出席的嘉賓包括駐波士頓台北經濟文化辦事處副處長陳銘俊，波士頓華僑文教中心主任歐宏偉，以及僑務諮詢委員馬滌凡。

            本身是基督徒的經文處副處長陳銘俊在致詞時指出，國父孫中山及總裁蔣介石這兩位偉人，都是基督徒，靠信仰度過艱難。他期勉國民黨能效仿他們兩人在發動革命，帶領抗戰時所發揮的努力不懈精神，完成不可能之任務。他也期許波士頓國民黨員們能以美國經驗向台灣獻策，供做發展參考，為故鄉台灣的和美國各項合作做橋樑。

            僑教中心主任歐宏偉感謝波士頓國民黨歷年來對僑委會的支持，籲請黨員們今年十月繼續支持各項雙十慶典活動。他也鼓勵黨員們回台灣享受優質的健保醫療服務。

            僑務咨詢委員馬滌凡預告全美台灣鄉親聯誼會訂4月8日下午1點至4點，在中華公所舉辦兩場專題演講，已知講題為「從心理學角度剖析川普及希拉蕊的人格特質」,「川普上任百曰回顧」。

台灣日跨入十週年擴大籌備

住波士頓華僑文教中心主任歐宏偉(右二)與約翰萊斯(右起)，波士頓
僑務委員蔣宗壬，璞石文化工作室李玉瑛主持會議。(周菊子攝)

              (Boston Orange 周菊子波士頓報導) 牛頓市台灣日今年慶祝十週年，將與台灣傳統週合併，訂5月6日擴大舉行，預定邀請16人的當代樂坊助陣。

              三、四十名僑團首長3月25日早上在波士頓僑教中心會址召開籌備會，討論停車，保險，食品安全，以及經費需求等議題。波克萊台灣商會顧問游勝雄率先表態支持，捐款500元。

              籌備會由波士頓僑務委員蔣宗壬主持。駐波士頓華僑文教中心主任歐宏偉，牛頓市議員約翰萊斯做開場致詞。僑教中心張小慧，璞石文化工作室李玉英，波克萊台商會前會長陳玉瑛，麻州元極舞聯誼會曾正泉等人分別從台灣傳統週，攤位，義工等角度和出席者討論。

              蔣宗壬指出，為籌備今年的牛頓市台灣日，僑界熱心人士已開過至少三，四次會議，做多方面協調。

右起，陳玉瑛，曾正泉，蔣宗壬，李玉瑛等人和出席僑領討論細節。
(周菊子攝)

              籌備單位目前已決議，攤位將收取費用，每張桌子50元，非牟利團體25元，逾期繳交者加價10元。有意擺攤者須在4月21日前登記，攤位性質宜以介紹台灣文化為主，支票抬頭註名Taiwan Day。

游勝雄捐款500元。

加斯林糖尿病防治從波士頓走向世界 薑之饗宴27日MFA見

徐千田醫師。(檔案照片，周菊子攝)

                (Boston Orange 周菊子波士頓報導) 加斯林糖尿病中心將於3月27日晚在波士頓美術博物館(MFA)舉行第13屆”薑之饗宴(A Taste of Ginger)”。加斯林國際部副總裁暨亞裔診所共同創辦人徐千田指出，推廣以BMI(體脂數)23為亞裔病患篩檢標準之外，深入社區，走向世界各地的去宣導飲食健康，預防勝於治療，將是該中心持續努力的目標。

                ”薑之饗宴(A Taste of Ginger)”是加斯林糖尿病中心為宣導飲食健康是預防糖尿病重要途徑之一，並為相關研究，服務籌款的活動，今年跨入第13屆，有29家餐廳食肆將為出席者烹製好吃又健康的美食，會上並將表揚長期支持該活動的帝苑大酒樓東主黃官羨。

                徐千田表示，經過十幾年的努力，加斯林糖尿病中心增加人們對糖尿病的認識和了解的行動，已從波士頓擴展到全美，全世界。社區的支持一直是他們努力的動力。他透露，從創辦加斯林亞裔門診以來，他個人就進社區主持過不下200場宣導說明活動，提醒人們要預防糖尿病，就要注意飲食，適量運動，控制體重。

                由於研究調查發現，美國約有3000萬名糖尿病患者，而亞裔染患第二型糖尿病的機率是一般美國人的兩倍，加斯林糖尿病中心美國亞裔糖尿病協進會(AADI)在網站(https://aadi.joslin.org)上貼出多種語言的免費教材，幫助人們自行進一步的認識糖尿病，並提供健康食譜，菜單樣本，美食鍋(drag n’ cook)來供人做改善飲食參考。

                AADI也因此推動成立了”Screen at 23”這非牟利組織，鼓吹各衛生醫療機構在篩檢亞裔是否可能染患了糖尿病時，以體脂指數23做衡量標準，而不是適用於一般美國人的25。

                徐千田透露，經過加斯林糖尿病中心的努力，如今已有加州，夏威夷州採納了BMI23的篩檢標準，下一步將推動麻州，紐約州也採納這一標準。他坦言制定標準是政策性活動，人的因素很重要。據悉，麻州亞美局(AAC)也正在協助推動此事。

徐千田擔任加斯林糖尿病中心國際部副總裁後，致力於把加斯林糖尿病中心的研發成果，帶到世界各地，過去三、四年來，去過中東，亞洲，加勒比海等地的不下12個國家。去年還和中國山東的陽光集團合作，設立糖尿病中心，為中國的糖尿病治療，研究，培訓，提供技術支援。

由於糖尿病患者的病情一但失控，往往會引起心臟病，腎病，眼病，中風等併發症，整體治療費用更趨昂貴，徐千田強調，從預防糖尿病著手，對個人及整體社會都更有益。

科技部長陳良基將訪波士頓 BTBA、MJNE 4/8 合辦座談

台灣科技部部長陳良基將於四月初參訪波士頓，波士頓台灣人生物科技協會(BTBA)及新英格蘭玉山科技協會(MJNE)於4/8共同舉辦「波士頓地區產學研科技人士與科技部座談會」，邀請學生及專業人士共襄盛舉。座談會中科技部將為大家介紹台灣生醫產業創新推動方案，同時提供與會人員與科技部直接交流的機會。

由於當天場地座位有限，如有興趣參加，請務必在4/5前至 https://goo.gl/forms/ZfD5lxzNXFwatyli2 報名，若額滿將提前截止報名。

ü   日期: 2017年4月8日 13:00-15:00

ü   地點: MIT Building 2-190

ü   座談會流程:

     12:30~13:00 報到
     13:00~13:10 貴賓致詞: 科技部陳良基部長
     13:10~13:40 簡報- 生醫產業創新推動方案 (by 科技部產學司邱求慧司長)

     13:40~15:00 與陳良基部長問答

主辦單位：
波士頓台灣人生物科技協會(Boston Taiwanese Biotechnology Association, BTBA)
新英格蘭玉山科技協會(Monte Jade New England, MJNE)
Sponsored by MIT ROCSA

STATEMENT OF ATTORNEY GENERAL MAURA HEALEY ON DEFEAT OF REPUBLICAN HEALTH CARE BILL

STATEMENT OF ATTORNEY GENERAL MAURA HEALEY ON DEFEAT OF REPUBLICAN HEALTH CARE BILL

BOSTON – Today, Attorney General Maura Healey issued the following statement on the defeat of health care legislation proposed by House Republicans:

           

“Today, we celebrate the defeat of a dangerous Republican health care bill and a victory for our residents and economy in Massachusetts. President Trump and Speaker Ryan’s frantic attempt to rush this bill through Congress failed thanks to the hard work and courage of a bipartisan group of members of Congress, business leaders, and millions of Americans who voiced their concerns. Congressional Republicans should abandon their misguided efforts to repeal the Affordable Care Act and instead work with us to lower health care costs and further expand access to care.”  

昆市華裔男子輾死前妻 他說意外 警稱殘酷

              (Boston Orange)昆士市華裔男子周炎龍(譯音，Yan Long Chow)週四(23日)在諾福克高等法院為前妻被他輾斃出庭。他聲稱該事故純屬意外，檢控官卻指他殘忍的輾壓前妻李珍(譯音，Zhen Li)4次。

                           案件發生在去年9月。周炎龍告訴警察，他開車時頭暈，意外地在昆士市住宅車道上輾壓了前妻。

                           週四(3月23日)時，檢控官卻說，周炎龍和前妻因為他賭博的事吵架後，他殘忍的開車輾壓前妻4次。

            現年55歲的周炎龍在諾福克高等法院提審時，面對一級謀殺罪，辯稱無罪。法官判羈押，不得交保。他的律師Scott Martin表示，周炎龍並不會從前妻的死亡獲得任何好處，這是一宗意外慘案。

            他說周炎龍愛他的家，愛他的前妻。他們兩人1985年結婚，1993年離婚，1998年又結婚，然後2005年又離婚，但一直住在一起。

            檢控官Adam Lally表示，周炎龍在9月2日大約下午2點25分時打了911電話，說他把廂型車開進家裏，在開進去時撞到了前妻。但是當警察抵達時，發現房子，車子，甚至沿著車道的籬笆，都沒損壞。那時在新聞報導中被形容為心煩意亂的周炎龍還抱怨胸痛，被送去醫院。

            根據法院文件，在警察詢問周炎龍時，他表示自己和52歲的前妻李珍那時要到東波士頓拿做生意的招牌。他告訴警察，他在車道上開車向前，準備接剛踏出家門的前妻，卻突然頭暈，一下子眼前就黑了。   

            Adam Lally說，來自醫院的紀錄顯示，周炎龍沒有頭暈或喘不過氣來的症狀。

            周炎龍告訴警察，當他發現自己撞到前妻時，立刻倒車，卻又再撞到她。他開向前，然後倒回頭開到車道底端，就在那兒看見前妻的身體躺在廂型車前。

根據法院文件，調查員了解到，這對夫妻有兩個小孩，經常因為周炎龍賭博而打架。由於他們之間的這問題，李珍已有獨自離美回中國的計畫。最近李珍也因為周炎龍到波士頓賭博，有兩天不見蹤影而生氣。

              調查員在車道重建事發現場後，判定周炎龍開車向前撞倒李珍，當李珍捲進車下後，周炎龍倒車，再又向前，拽著李珍，然後調直輪胎，以免撞到籬笆或房屋。當李珍在車道底端跌到車外時，周炎龍又前後方向的在李珍身體上再多輾一次。

當檢控官 Lally形容李珍的可怕傷勢時，法官Beverly Cannone 制止了他，說自己已經聽夠了。

在聽證時，周炎龍面無表情。他的兒子坐在法庭中，但拒絕和記者們說話。

周炎龍的律師Martin告訴法官 Cannone這不是一宗”我做的”案子，而且周炎龍在獲悉自己被控謀殺後，自動報到。他還指出，新聞報導也形容周炎龍在李珍死時情緒激動，並沒有試圖離開現場。儘管他倆離婚了，但仍住在一起，也沒有家暴或限制令的前科。

哈佛法學院一華裔學生週四死亡

            (Boston Orange) 哈佛大學法學院一年級學生Will Zhang 週四(23日)意外死亡，米斗塞郡(Middlesex)地方檢察官辦公室表示無可疑狀況。

            哈佛大學法學院院長Martha L. Minow在發給學生們的電郵中透露，麻州警察於週四下午在劍橋市故事街(Story)宿舍中，發現Will Zhang已逝，死因還不確定。

            米斗塞郡地方檢察官辦公室發言人Elizabeth Vlock表示，警方並未發現可疑之處。

            哈佛校報The Crimson指出，根據領英(Linkedn)資訊，現年23歲的Will Zhang 在2016年時從多倫多大學畢業。哈佛法學院的亞太裔美人法學院學生協會共同主席Amanda Chan 及 Kevin W. Jiang證實，Will Zhang是該會會員。

            根據網路資料，過去這幾年來，哈佛大學至少有3名華裔學生因不同原因辭世，包括2015年9月，時年19歲的Luke Tang，2014年4月Andrew Sun，以及2012年4月Wendy Chang。

MASSACHUSETTS BLACK AND LATINO LEGISLATIVE RELEASES COMMUNITIES OF COLOR LISTENING TOUR SUMMARY REPORT AND AGENDA

MASSACHUSETTS BLACK AND LATINO LEGISLATIVE RELEASES COMMUNITIES OF COLOR LISTENING TOUR SUMMARY REPORT AND AGENDA

BOSTON – The Massachusetts Black and Latino Legislative Caucus (MBLLC) releases Communities of Color Agenda and Summary Report based on feedback garnered at the December 2016 Communities of Color Agenda Listening Tour which made stops in Boston (Roxbury), Lawrence, and Springfield. In total, the Listening Tour welcomed over 350 residents and received over 100 public testimonies.

The nine-page COC Agenda Summary Report outlines the written and oral testimony received at each Listening Tour stop. This testimony ranged from 14 different issue areas ranging from civic engagement to youth development. In the report, each issue category was later organized into three tiers: Tier 1- Highest cited issue areas (30+ comments); Tier 2- Moderately cited issues areas (12+ comments); and Tier 3- Least cited issues (2+ comments). Overall, issues related to economic development, criminal justice, public health, and housing were the highest cited topics among residents.

“We heard you. The priorities we should be focused on this legislative session are economic development, criminal justice, public health, and housing”, said MBLLC Chair, Rep. Russell Holmes (D – Boston).

The COC Agenda Summary Report also announces the COC Agenda, which is a set of 19 bills from the MBLLC legislative priorities that overlap with the issues raised at the COC Agenda Listening Tour. This proposed COC Agenda is largely comprised of bills sponsored by the MBLLC members, but also includes bills filed by non-MBLLC members.  The MBLLC intends to work alongside residents and advocates to advance during the remainder of the 190^th Legislative Session. 

In advance of the FY18 House budget debate, the MBLLC will go back in the community this April for the MBLLC Budget Listening Tour specifically dedicated to inform residents of the upcoming state budget process and gather feedback on budget priorities. The Budget Listening Tour will take place in Chelsea (4/10), Randolph (4/11), and Worcester (4/12).

For more information on the Massachusetts Black and Latino Legislative Caucus, please visit: www.mablacklatinocaucus.com/.