CITY TO HOST OPEN DATA CHALLENGE SHOWCASE

CITY TO HOST OPEN DATA CHALLENGE SHOWCASE

BOSTON - Friday, May 5, 2017 - This Saturday, the City of Boston's Department of Innovation and Technology (DoIT) will host the Analyze Boston Open Data Challenge Showcase. The showcase is the culminating event of the two-year effort to build the next generation of Boston's open data program. Hosted by DoIT's Analytics Team, the Open Data Challenge participants will present projects that fit into one of five challenge tracks: Reducing Boston's Carbon Footprint, Making Open Data Local, Learning More from BuildBPS Data, Identifying Fire Risks or Telling a Story Through Data. This Open Data showcase is free and open to members of the public. Interested attendees are asked to register online. WHEN:       9 a.m. to 5 p.m.                    Saturday, May 6, 2017 WHERE:    District Hall                   75 Northern Ave. WHO:        Andrew Therriault, Boston's Chief Data Officer                         Presenters from:                         Boston Fire Department                         Boston Public Library                         Dudley Street Neighborhood Initiative                         National Fire Protection Association

Boston Public Schools to Partner with Boston Big Picture School to Reimagine 7-12 Learning

Boston Public Schools to Partner with Boston Big Picture School to Reimagine 7-12 Learning

Funding and management assistance from NewSchools Venture Fund will fuel efforts to launch new, innovative school models

Boston - Friday, May 5, 2017 - Boston Public Schools Superintendent Tommy Chang is proud to announce a partnership with Boston Big Picture School to launch the development of a new, innovative school model that will incorporate personalized student learning plans that build off the student's passions and the integration of real-world problem solving through internships. Boston Big Picture School is a part of the Big Picture Learning Network, a Rhode Island-based educational nonprofit that provides a framework for school design and support to schools that are seeking to rethink the way they educate students. The initiative was selected as one of 29 organizations to receive financial grants this year from NewSchools Venture Fund. In addition to the funding, NewSchools will provide management assistance and create a forum for sharing best practices among the grant recipients. As part of its commitment, Big Picture Learning will work closely with the Boston Public Schools (BPS) to design an innovative school model that creates an academic setting that meets all students where they are, helps them succeed, and inspires them to create a brighter future. The initiative will be integrated with other BPS planning processes, such as BuildBPS, the district's 10-year educational and facilities master plan, and the district's work to redesign the high-school learning experience to better prepare BPS students for college, career and lifelong success. "Boston is a city of innovation across many sectors. In teaming up with BPS, Boston Big Picture School will help bring new innovation to the education of our children and provide them with 21st century skills to flourish in our city," said Mayor Martin J. Walsh. "Its concepts will help inform decisions around school-building investments as we continue to implement BuildBPS." Boston Big Picture School will focus on designing a school that will serve BPS students in grades 7-12. In its model, students will pursue a personalized academic program rooted in his or her unique curiosity, passion and goals. Through a range of project based learning, internships and blended learning experiences they will acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to gain access to competitive colleges and careers. "Last year, Big Picture Learning had an opportunity to present to the Boston School Committee its visions for an innovative school that would transform how children are taught," said School Committee Chairperson Michael O'Neill. "We are interested to see this project further develop into a new school archetype that could dramatically improve the educational outcomes of our children." Superintendent Chang said he looks forward to collaborating with Boston Big Picture School to develop a new school design that could help reimagine how children learn. "The instructional model that it is developing could reinvent education as we know it," Dr. Chang said. "It will foster relationship building between students, advisors and families; promote individualized learning by identifying student's passions, goals and needs; and promote 21st century skills by providing work-based learning." Boston Big Picture School will also establish and nurture a culture of trust, respect, equality, and empowerment so that all members of the community are learning and valued as we build a community rooted in democratic values. The design team for the Boston Big Picture School is being lead by Kevin Brill, the associate headmaster of Fenway High School who has worked as a teacher and administrator in the Boston Public Schools for over 20 years. "Boston Big Picture School is excited to be selected as a member of the 2017 'invent cohort' by NewSchools Venture Fund and to partner with the Boston Public Schools and Big Picture Learning in developing a school model that will provide a unique choice for students within the city of Boston," Brill said. NewSchools Venture Fund is funding projects like Boston Big Picture School as part of a movement to rethink education in the 21st century. "Too many of today's schools were built for a different time and purpose," said Scott Benson, managing partner at NewSchools Venture Fund. "We believe schools can be reimagined to better prepare young people for the future. That's why NewSchools is proud to invest in these teams of educators who are thinking boldly and creating new opportunities to set students up for success, regardless of where they're from." "We at Big Picture Learning are thrilled to bring our experience to bear in support of Boston Big Picture School's innovative new school design," added Andrew Frishman, Co-Executive Director of Big Picture Learning. "This school model, like those all across our national and international network, will have at its core the local needs of the vibrant community it serves. We're excited for what's next."

STATEMENT OF ATTORNEY GENERAL MAURA HEALEY ON THE HOUSE PASSAGE OF THE AMERICAN HEALTH CARE ACT

STATEMENT OF ATTORNEY GENERAL MAURA HEALEY ON THE HOUSE PASSAGE OF THE AMERICAN HEALTH CARE ACT

BOSTON – Today, Attorney General Maura Healey issued the following statement:

“In Massachusetts, we believe that everyone should have access to health care. Clearly President Trump and Speaker Ryan disagree. The Republican bill would make it harder for sick people to access treatment and for healthy people to stay well. It would jeopardize access to reproductive health care for women. And in the midst of the national opioid epidemic, it would cut vital addiction and mental health services. The House has ignored the concerns of health care experts, doctors, nurses, and the millions of Americans who depend on the Affordable Care Act. I urge the U.S. Senate to reject this bill.”

FIVE ARRESTED IN JOINT FEDERAL-STATE TAKEDOWN OF MAJOR HUMAN TRAFFICKING OPERATION, AUTHORITIES PLEDGE SUPPORT TO TRAFFICKING VICTIMS

FIVE ARRESTED IN JOINT FEDERAL-STATE TAKEDOWN OF MAJOR HUMAN TRAFFICKING OPERATION, AUTHORITIES PLEDGE SUPPORT TO TRAFFICKING VICTIMS

AG’s Office, FBI Worked with Local Authorities to Dismantle Sex Trafficking Operation in Boston, Cambridge, North Reading, and Quincy

BOSTON – A joint investigation and takedown by Attorney General Maura Healey’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation Boston Division has resulted in the arrest of five individuals in connection with a major human trafficking and money laundering operation that extended throughout Greater Boston. Victim specialists in the FBI’s Office for Victim Assistance and AG Healey’s Victim Services Division are working with victim service organizations to ensure victims have the assistance and services they need.

Pingxia Fan, age 40, of Boston, Timothy Hayes, age 50, of Gloucester, SimonShimao Lin, age 59, of Boston, Biqun Xiao, age 47, of Deerfield, N.H., and Robert Mozer, age 65, of Deerfield, N.H., were all arrested today in connection with trafficking women for sex at brothels in Boston, Cambridge, North Reading and Quincy.

“Today’s arrests follow a tragic pattern we are seeing in our neighborhoods—vulnerable individuals being preyed upon and sexually exploited for profit,” said AG Healey. “We want victims to know that they will not be prosecuted and that our offices will work to make sure they receive the services they need and deserve.”

“Sex trafficking is without a doubt, the most common form of modern-day slavery and it’s big business,” said Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “As alleged, Fan and her co-conspirators were offering sex for a fee on a large-scale basis in brothels across Massachusetts, exploiting women, many of whom were transported here from out of state. This case demonstrates the problem is right here within our communities, impacting victims, the safety of our neighborhoods, and our quality of life. Together, with our law enforcement partners, the FBI will continue to identify and locate the criminal enterprises that are perpetrating these egregious crimes.”

Fan, Hayes and Lin were each charged with one count of Trafficking of Persons for Sexual Servitude, Deriving Support from Prostitution, Money Laundering, Keeping House of Ill Fame, and Conspiracy. Mozer and Xiao were charged with one count each of Conspiracy to Traffic Persons for Sexual Servitude. 

Fan and Lin were arrested this morning in Boston. Hayes was arrested in Gloucester and Mozer and Xiao were arrested in Quincy.

Fan, Lin, Hayes and Mozer were all arraigned today in Woburn District Court where they pleaded not guilty to the charges against them. Bail was set at $150,000 cash for each Fan, Lin and Hayes. Bail was set at $50,000 for Mozer. The condition of release for all four defendants are as follows: surrender passport; GPS monitoring; stay away from victims, co-defendants and buyers; and no internet use. These defendants are due back in Woburn District Court on June 2 for probable cause hearings.

Xiao will be arraigned in Cambridge District Court tomorrow morning. 

Today’s arrests are the result of an extensive investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Boston Division Human Trafficking and Child Exploitation Task Force and Massachusetts State Police assigned to the AG’s Human Trafficking Division.

           

The investigation revealed that the five defendants ran a sex trafficking and money laundering operation involving multiple brothels—two in Quincy, and individual ones located in Boston, Cambridge and North Reading. The defendants allegedly posted online advertisements offering sexual services and used multiple vehicles to transport sex trafficking victims, money and supplies.

The defendants allegedly arranged for women to meet with men at the brothel locations to provide commercial sexual services in exchange for cash. Authorities allege the majority of the money from these encounters went to the defendants, which they laundered into the business to perpetuate the daily operations of the criminal enterprise.

            Authorities today executed search warrants at the five brothel locations at which ten victims were identified. Search warrants were also executed at residences in Boston and Gloucester.

Various units from the Massachusetts State Police provided assistance in this case. The Boston, Cambridge, Gloucester, Newton, North Reading, Quincy and Revere Police Departments also provided assistance.

This investigation remains ongoing. These charges are allegations, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

AG Healey has a dedicated Human Trafficking Division that focuses on policy, prevention and prosecution and includes a team of specialized prosecutors, victim advocates and Massachusetts State Police troopers who handle high impact, multi-jurisdictional human trafficking investigations and prosecutions across the state. Through the Human Trafficking Division, the AG’s Office has charged more than 30 individuals in connection with human trafficking since the law was passed.

The FBI Boston Division's Human Trafficking and Child Exploitation Task Force is one of 12 DOJ-funded task forces in the country with the mission to combat sex and labor trafficking. Nationally, the FBI participates in over 100 human trafficking task forces and working groups. The FBI believes in a victim-centered approach to human trafficking investigations, where identifying and stabilizing victims of this heinous crime is equally as important as providing resources to help them.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant Attorneys General Nancy Rothstein and Jeffrey Bourgeois, both of the AG’s Human Trafficking Division, with assistance from Nikki Antonucci and Rebecca Auld of the AG’s Victim Services Division and Investigator Jillian Petruzziello of the AG’s Financial Investigations Division. It was investigated by Massachusetts State Police assigned to the AG’s Human Trafficking Division and the Federal Bureau of Investigation Boston Division Human Trafficking and Child Exploitation Task Force, with assistance from the AG’s Digital Evidence Lab. The Massachusetts State Police and the Boston, Cambridge, Gloucester, Newton, North Reading, Quincy and Revere Police Departments also provided assistance.

CAPAC Chair Judy Chu Decries “Heartless” ACA Repeal Vote

CAPAC Chair Judy Chu Decries “Heartless” ACA Repeal Vote

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The House of Representatives today voted 217-213 to pass H.R. 1628, the American Health Care Act (AHCA), the Republican plan to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act. Initial estimates from the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) found that the underlying legislation will take away coverage from 24 million Americans over the next decade, including up to 2 million Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs). CAPAC Chair Rep. Judy Chu (CA-27) voted against the bill and released the following statement:

“I am incredibly saddened and outraged that Republicans ignored the expressed opposition from doctors, hospitals, patient advocates, health experts and even members of their own party to pass this heartless bill. It is unconscionable to me that they would charge ahead with – and then celebrate – a vote that they know will force millions off their insurance and raise prices for people with preexisting conditions. Worse, their rush to vote on this bill meant there wasn’t even time for the Congressional Budget Office to score the fiscal and human costs of the final version. The haste to act and then immediately hop on a bus to the White House shows that they were more concerned with helping Trump keep a campaign promise than with actually improving healthcare.

“This bill will have serious consequences for the American people. This bill threatens to kick 7 million veterans off their insurance, shortens the life of Medicare, allows people aged 50-64 to be charged 5 times more than young people, and eliminates coverage for 24 million Americans, including nearly 2 million Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders across the country. It defunds Planned Parenthood for one year, and would once again allow being a rape or domestic violence victim to be a pre-existing condition. This bill creates a  “women’s tax” that would permit insurance companies to charge women more than men for essential coverage like pregnancy. Trumpcare would also cut $838 billion from Medicaid, endangering care for individuals with disabilities, low-income children, and seniors in nursing homes and long-term care facilities. In the midst of the worst opioid epidemic our nation has ever seen, it rips mental health and addiction services away from those who need it most. Trumpcare does all this while giving the 400 richest families in America an annual tax break of $2.8 million.

“As we have said in the past, Democrats remain willing and eager to work to improve the Affordable Care Act. But this was not an improvement. This was a cruel attack on vulnerable Americans, especially those with preexisting conditions. An improvement is a plan that will increase access for all Americans, keep costs down, and ensure that being sick or a woman or a senior is not an excuse to be denied coverage.”

哈佛訪問學人以臺灣死刑存廢爭議 鼓勵多元思考

哈佛訪問學人以臺灣死刑存廢爭議　鼓勵多元思考

年頂大訪問學人講座，延續第一場邀請朱惠足教授主講的成功經驗，在4月30日邀請目前在哈佛大學燕京學社訪問研究的中央研究院法律研究所許家馨博士擔任主講人，講述「從台灣死刑爭議出發談民主審議的倫理」，討論臺灣死刑存廢議題引發之思考論辯。這場活動同樣由哲學星期五主辦籌劃，與紐英崙中華專業人員協會及駐波士頓辦事處教育組共同合辦，期待吸引不同族群共同討論臺灣相關議題。

許家馨博士首先說明臺灣廢除死刑運動現況，也分享他過往與廢除死刑運動主要成員對話交流的經驗。根據民意調查，臺灣約有80%的民眾不贊成廢除死刑，而主張廢除的推動人士雖然占少數，但其推動能量卻是強大的。近幾年隨著重大社會案件，如無差別殺人事件的發生，臺灣死刑存廢議題受到媒體的報導與大眾的關注與議論。許博士說明，臺灣推動廢除死刑的基本論述為生命是可貴的，同時也希望不要有誤判的情形發生。他也解說其他國家推動現況，如歐洲國家屬於廢除死刑的先鋒，而美國在死刑存廢議題上，是先進國家中屬於較保守的國家，目前仍有部分州法律存在死刑及執行死刑。而亞洲的日本則是採取逐步廢除死刑的方式。

在思考死刑存廢議題上，許博士提出6項思考層次，從道德、違反憲法與否、政策執行的目的與手段、執行死刑的特定政治體及特定共同體等面向，引領聽眾以多元角度思考死刑存廢議題。他說，多元的思考層次可以創造出與持不同意見立場的人溝通的空間，搭起交流的橋樑，打破二元思考對立的模式。同時，他指出思考也會受情緒影響，如不同的角度（被害者或加害者），或歷史因素等，將導出不同的意見。許博士說道，除存廢死刑兩種選擇上，或許也可以透過法律的規範，在執行面上設立許多限制或較嚴苛的審判標準，限縮死刑執行的漸進方式。

從死刑存廢這樣重大公眾議題討論裡，許博士接著解釋理想的民主審議過程，經過不同社群，如公民、政治、經濟及專家等社群多元的思辯後，議題逐漸去蕪存菁達成共識，進而成為政府的執行政策。許博士也說，這是理想狀況，如果當某一社群無法發揮功能，議題去蕪存菁的能力就會降低，民主審議的成效也就有限。

聽完許博士精彩的演說分享，聽眾在問答時間，也熱烈地提出推動臺灣廢除死刑主要成員特色、司法判決實務面可改進地方及面對不同意見立場的族群時，如何建立交流溝通的橋樑等問題與心得，許博士也就自己參與公共議題討論的經驗及法律哲學研究等角度，與參與民眾分享及討論。會後，許多聽眾更進一步與許博士深度交流，充份呼應本次公眾議題討論的主題。(駐波士頓教育組提供)

Charlie Baker disappointed at congress' vote on passing Ameerican Health Care Act

Governor Baker Releases Statement On American Health Care Act

BOSTON – Today, Governor Charlie Baker released the following statement on the passage of the American Health Care Act:

“Massachusetts leads the nation in health care coverage and I am disappointed by today’s vote as this bill would significantly reduce critical funds for the Commonwealth’s health care system.  As the U.S. Senate takes up this bill, we will continue to advocate for the Commonwealth’s priorities so that all residents have access to the health coverage they need.  Maintaining flexibility through the Medicaid program is critical to the Commonwealth’s ability to provide coverage for the needy and I urge Congress to reject this bill in its current form.”

Martin Walsh disappointed on congress' vote to repeal Affordable Care Act

STATEMENT FROM MAYOR MARTIN J. WALSH

BOSTON - Thursday, May 4, 2017 - Mayor Martin J. Walsh today released the following statement: "I am disappointed that Congress voted today to repeal the Affordable Care Act. This action will hurt people living with pre-existing conditions, deny access to essential benefits including substance use treatment and recovery services, and trigger large reductions in vital funding to Massachusetts. I stand with our Congressional Delegation in opposing this harmful proposal and vow to continue working to ensure that our residents have access to adequate, affordable health care."

FIREFIGHTER APPRECIATION DAY IN BOSTON

MAYOR WALSH, COMMISSIONER FINN CELEBRATE FIREFIGHTER APPRECIATION DAY IN BOSTON

Highlights investments in Boston Fire Department; Honors Commissioner Joseph Finn as Fire Chief of the Year

BOSTON - Thursday, May 4, 2017 - Mayor Martin J. Walsh today joined Boston Fire Commissioner Joseph Finn, firefighters, students from the Mather Elementary School and community members in proclaiming Thursday, May 4 as "Firefighter Appreciation Day" in the City of Boston, which honors the important contributions and sacrifices that firefighters make to keep Boston safe. As part of Mayor Walsh's recently released Fiscal Year 2018 - Fiscal Year 2022 Imagine Boston Capital Plan, the City will invest $71 million in state-of-the-art technology and equipment for the Boston Fire Department over the next five years to improve the fire protection and emergency services that are vital to neighborhood safety and security. "The members of the Boston Fire Department are real-life heroes who work hard each and every day to keep people safe in our City," said Mayor Walsh. "I am proud to proclaim today as Firefighter Appreciation Day in the City of Boston, celebrating the service and sacrifice that the men and women of the Fire Department make to protect our City. Those who put their lives on the line everyday to protect our residents deserve to have the best equipment and services, which is why we will continue to invest in cutting edge technology and equipment for the Boston Fire Department." As part of today's event, Father Daniel Mahoney, Chief Chaplain for the Boston Fire Department, blessed Engine 16, the first of 23 new engines that will be added to the department's fleet over the next several months. In addition, the Capital Plan sets aside funding for new fire stations that will reflect the best practices for firehouse design that were studied by the Boston Fire Department and the City's Public Facilities Department. Key changes include separating out different areas of the firehouse to keep fire contaminants away from living areas and improved personal and gear cleaning facilities. The replacements of Engines 42 in Egleston Square and Engine 17 in Dorchester, the location of today's event, will be among the first firehouses in the nation to reflect these enhancements, at a combined cost of nearly $40 million. In Charlestown, Engine 50 will undergo a complete building renovation totaling $3.8 million for exterior masonry work, upgrades to building systems and widening of apparatus doors. In addition, in an effort to promote health and safety for firefighters, the Mayor's proposed FY18 operating budget will include $500,000 for a pilot program to provide industrial level cleaning for firehouses. The funds will pay to thoroughly clean ductwork, replace ceilings where necessary, and replace fabric furniture that has become contaminated with potentially carcinogenic compounds. Other investments will support the infrastructure and equipment utilized by Boston's firefighters, and will include roof and masonry construction at firehouses for Engine 4, 5, 14 and 55, as well as HVAC and lighting upgrades at various fire stations to improve energy efficiency and utilize utility rebates. Boston's commitment to firefighters has also been recognized nationally. Last month, the Metro Fire Chiefs Association named Commissioner Finn National Fire Chief of the Year. Commissioner Finn was selected for his leadership in working to improve the health, wellness, safety and protective gear for firefighters. In addition to establishing a Safety, Health & Wellness Division with the Boston Fire Department, Commissioner Finn has also implemented safety measures including new 45 minute air tanks, wearing of hoods at fire scenes, putting bunker gear washing machine extractors in firehouses and monitoring of air quality in fire buildings. "It's an honor to be named National Fire Chief of the Year, and be able to lead Boston's dedicated firemen and women," said Commissioner Finn. "Mayor Walsh and Boston's commitment to the fire service is unmatched across the country, and is one of the factors in keeping fatal fires in Boston to one of the lowest levels anywhere. This day recognizes the trust and support my department receives, and makes me proud to serve my City."

Governor Baker Releases Statement On American Health Care Act

Governor Baker Releases Statement On American Health Care Act

BOSTON – Today, Governor Charlie Baker released the following statement on the passage of the American Health Care Act:

“Massachusetts leads the nation in health care coverage and I am disappointed by today’s vote as this bill would significantly reduce critical funds for the Commonwealth’s health care system.  As the U.S. Senate takes up this bill, we will continue to advocate for the Commonwealth’s priorities so that all residents have access to the health coverage they need.  Maintaining flexibility through the Medicaid program is critical to the Commonwealth’s ability to provide coverage for the needy and I urge Congress to reject this bill in its current form.”

Governor Baker Signs $290 Million Transportation Funding Bill

Governor Baker Signs $290 Million Transportation Funding Bill

$700 million authorized in Chapter 90 transportation funds during the Baker-Polito Administration; bill also funds software and mobility programs

Pictured left to right: Representative Steven Howitt, Senator John Keenan, Representative Elizabeth Poirier, Secretary of Transportation Stephanie Pollack, Governor Charlie Baker, Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr, Senator Thomas McGee and Representative Donald Wong

Click here to download photo

BOSTON – Governor Charlie Baker today signed An Act Financing Improvements to Municipal Roads and Bridges (H. 2783), authorizing $200 million in Chapter 90 transportation funds for municipalities across the Commonwealth this construction season. Chapter 90 transportation funding supports reimbursing municipalities for road-related construction projects and comes from general obligation bond issuances. Also included in the bill is $60 million to fund the Registry of Motor Vehicles’ software platform, known as ATLAS, and $30 million to reauthorize the Mobility Assistance Program (MAP). 

“Local transportation funding for cities and towns across Massachusetts has been a priority for our administration since the first day we took office,” said Governor Baker. “State support to repair local roads and improve safety is critical for the people, businesses, and first responders of Massachusetts. We are also pleased this legislation includes funding to continue the state’s mobility assistance program for the disabled and elderly, as well as overhaul the Registry’s software system to improve operations and customer service.” 

“Across the Commonwealth, local officials count on this support for important transportation improvements in their cities and towns,” said Lt. Governor Polito. “We are pleased to provide $200 million in funding again this year and thank the legislature for their collaboration to authorize these funds in time for this upcoming construction season.”

In total, since taking office in 2015, the Baker-Polito Administration has released $700 million in Chapter 90 infrastructure funds.

Chapter 90 reimburses cities and towns for costs incurred for eligible transportation projects. Cities and towns must submit receipts to the MassDOT Highway Division district in which they are located which verifies that the expenditures qualify for reimbursement under Chapter 90. The Highway Districts in turn submit these receipts to the Department of Transportation’s Fiscal Department which facilitates the reimbursements to cities and towns.

Chapter 90 funds must be allocated to roadway projects, such as resurfacing and related work like preliminary engineering including State Aid/Consultant Design Agreements, right-of-way acquisition, shoulders, side road approaches, landscaping and tree planting, roadside drainage, structures (including bridges), sidewalks, traffic control and service facilities, street lighting (excluding operating costs), and for such other purposes as the MassDOT may specifically authorize.

“I am pleased that the administration is once again able to provide this important funding to our cities and towns,” said Administration and Finance Secretary Kristen Lepore. “Chapter 90 funding is just one of the many ways that the Baker-Polito administration supports our communities through both our capital and operating budgets.”

“This funding underscores our administration’s commitment to work in close collaboration with municipal partners and support their economic development and infrastructure priorities,” said Transportation Secretary and CEO Stephanie Pollack. “We can continue to improve the quality of life in our communities and use transportation infrastructure as a tool to achieve economic goals if we continue to provide capital dollars to cities and towns and allow municipal officials to be empowered to improve their own infrastructure.”

The ATLAS software program will replace the increasingly outdated system known as ALARS and enable the issuance of Real ID compliant credentials, allow more online transactions for individual customers as well as business customers and government partners, and improve service delivery overall.  

The funding provided for MAP in this legislation will be used mainly to help Councils on Aging, Regional Transit Authorities (RTAs), and other providers purchase lift-equipped vans that will be used to transport elderly and disabled customers. MassDOT is able to combine MAP funding with federal support each year to fund 80% of the purchase price for 140 vans awarded to community and regional organizations across the Commonwealth. MAP dollars are also dedicated on an annual basis for MassDOT to provide technical assistance to RTAs and other grantees.

More information about the Chapter 90 Program is available by clicking here.

A list of Chapter 90 funding by municipality is available by clicking here.

一中國學生當槍手考托福 被捕

(Boston Orange)波士頓環球報今(4)日報導，美國檢察官(US Attorney)週二(3日)逮捕一名中國學生，控告他與人合謀，為另外三名中國籍學生考托福英語，欺騙美國。

               25歲的王岳(譯音，Yue Wang)是劍橋市赫特(Hult)國際商學院學生，據說代替24歲的張世坤(譯音，Shikun Zhang)，21歲的黃樂義(譯音，Leyi Huang)，21歲的鄭曉孟(譯音，Xiaomeng Cheng)考試。

               托福(TOFEL)是世界上9000所大專院校採用的一項考試。美國政府也在發放，展延或審核F-1學生簽證時採用。

               據說，張黃鄭三名學生用了他們的分數來取得進入東北大學，賓州大學，以及亞利桑那州大學的入學許可。

               他們三人藉由學校的入學許可獲發學生簽證。

            美國代理檢察官William B. Weinreb表示，用非法策略來規避托福考試，會危及學術完整性，以及美國的學生簽證項目。

他說，托福考試確保國際學生在美國高等教育中有足夠的英語語文能力順利學習。那也有助於保護邊界安全，移民系統。

這些學生購買能通過考驗的分數，違反了該考試的原則，規定。

Alcohol Task Force to Hold Six Public Hearings Around the State

Alcohol Task Force to Hold Six Public Hearings Around the State

BOSTON – Treasurer Deborah B. Goldberg today announced the Alcohol Task Force will hold six public hearings in May and June as part of its review of the legal and regulatory framework governing the alcoholic beverage industry in Massachusetts. The Task Force, which consists of appointees selected by Treasurer Goldberg, Governor Charles Baker, Senate President Stan Rosenberg and Speaker of the House Robert DeLeo, will hold the hearings for individuals, consumers, industry professionals, business owners and trade associations to provide their recommendations on potential reforms.

Those who submitted position papers and statements through the Task Force website will be invited to attend and deliver a brief presentation. All members of the public are also welcome to come and provide testimony. Anyone planning to attend can sign up in advance at this link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/7LF95RN. Speaking order will be determined on a first-come, first-serve basis with choice given to anyone who submitted position papers.

The hearings will take place at the following dates and locations:

Thursday, May 18, 2017 – Waltham

11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Government Center Auditorium: 119 School Street, First Floor, Waltham, MA 02451

Tuesday, May 30, 2017 – Foxborough

11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Boyden Public Library, Community Room: 10 Bird Street, Foxborough, MA 02035

Thursday, June 1, 2017 – Leominster

11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Leominster Public Library, Large Conference Room: 30 West Street, Leominster, MA 01453

Tuesday, June 6, 2017 – Northampton

11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

City Hall Council Chambers: 212 Main Street, Northampton, MA 01060

Thursday, June 8, 2017 – Bourne

11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Veterans Memorial Community Center: 239 Main Street, Bourne, MA 02532

Tuesday, June 13, 2017 – Chelmsford

11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Chelmsford Police Station Training Room: 2 Olde North Road, Chelmsford, MA 01824

For more information about the Treasurer’s Alcohol Task Force, please visit this website: http://www.mass.gov/treasury/alcoholtaskforce/.

The Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission (ABCC) is an agency under the Office of the State Treasurer and Receiver General. Its overall objective is to provide uniform control over the sale, purchase, transportation, manufacture and possession of alcoholic beverages in the state. For more information on the ABCC, please visit: www.mass.gov/abcc.