MAYOR WALSH AND THE MAYOR'S OFFICE OF WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT DIRECT $1.2 MILLION TO ALTERNATIVE EDUCATION AND CAREER TRAINING PROGRAMS FOR BOSTON YOUTH

MAYOR WALSH AND THE MAYOR'S OFFICE OF WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT DIRECT $1.2 MILLION TO ALTERNATIVE EDUCATION AND CAREER TRAINING PROGRAMS FOR BOSTON YOUTH

BOSTON - Thursday, July 18, 2019 - Mayor Martin J. Walsh and the Mayor's Office of Workforce Development (OWD) today announced a $1.2 million investment in alternative education, career exploration, and career training programs that will open doors to economic opportunity for Boston's young people. The funds, which come to the City through the federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), will support eight local nonprofit organizations that serve young people ages 14-24 with an emphasis on those who have experienced challenges such as homelessness, poverty, court involvement, or physical or mental disability. "Boston's young people represent Boston's talent and future, and creating more opportunities for them is one of the most worthwhile investments we can make," said Mayor Walsh. "Our City is fortunate to have key community organizations with on-the-ground expertise to guide our young people along to ensure they receive every opportunity possible. They are crucial partners in our work to ensure that every resident, of every age, can pursue their full potential."  "Under Mayor Walsh's leadership, the City has made major investments in the transition from youth to adulthood and financial independence for the young people of our neighborhoods. It is so important to provide opportunities for such a broad spectrum of youth and young adults," said Michael O'Neill, Chair of the Youth Council of Boston's MassHire Workforce Board, which approves WIOA spending, and a member of the Boston Public School Committee.      The funded programs, which are expected to serve more than 170 young people from July 2019-June 2020, represent a diversity of neighborhoods and program models.  College Bound Dorchester, for example, engages court-involved youth in skills-based apprenticeships at a Seaport boat shop. Another recipient, More Than Words, teaches career readiness within the context of a youth-run bookselling business in the South End. Work experiences such as these can have a profound impact on a variety of life outcomes. A recent report commissioned by OWD found that youth participating in Boston's summer jobs program showed a 35 percent decrease in violent crime arraignments and a 57 percent decrease in property crime arraignments relative to a control group. These participants also had fewer unexcused absences at school. All of the funded programs will help youth advance along defined pathways toward individualized goals. For example, a young person might progress from a first-time work experience to a higher-paying job, or from a completed high school degree to an industry certificate or higher education. Along the way, youth will also receive support with personal challenges that have hindered their success in the past. Yiovani Castillo, 21, of Brighton is one of many young people who have benefited from this life-changing support. When Castillo came to X-Cel Education to finish his high school education, he was earning minimum wage at a grocery store and caring for his five siblings. "It's hard to be a brother and a father at the same time, plus trying to work and finish up school. Here [at X-Cel] I had people to support me educationally, emotionally, mentally - even with things going on outside the program," said Castillo.    Through the program Castillo not only earned his high school credentials, but also completed two internships. He is now training to become a certified wastewater operator with a national construction engineering company. Recipient organizations were selected through an open and competitive Request for Proposals (RFP) process overseen by OWD and the  Boston Private Industry Council. A review committee evaluated the proposals based on applicants' ability to produce long-term outcomes in career readiness. In addition to the eight nonprofits, funds will be allocated for skills assessment testing, and, new this year, the creation of an online directory that organizations can use to locate additional support services - ranging from financial literacy to housing assistance - for the youth they serve.  Organization Program Funding Focus Action for Boston Community Development University High School $433,893 Students who struggled in traditional schools work toward their Boston Public School diploma Action for Boston Community Development Career Explorations Youth train in culinary arts, early childhood education, health care Asian American Civic Association Hire Values Youth Center $72,702 Out-of-school youth train in medical office support, building maintenance, retail banking & finance El Centro del Cardenal Youth Education Program $91,651 Latinx youth receive bilingual instruction to prepare for the high school equivalency exam College Board Dorchester College Connections Marine Apprenticeship Pathway $101,634 Court-involved youth complete HiSET while working in a marine setting East Boston Neighborhood Health Center Health Career Pathways & Nursing Assistant Training $76,376 Youth learn about healthcare careers in preparation for personal care assistant training EDCO Youth Alternative Alternative High School Program $204,849 Youth work toward their high school diploma More Than Words Boston Special Enterprise $112,555 Youth gain job skills by running a book-selling business X-Cel Education Pathways to Careers Initiative  $83,847 Youth prepare for the high school equivalency exam Boston Youth Services Directory & CASAS testing $25,475 Programs connect other youth services, get pre- and post-program assessment tools TOTAL $1,202,981

Baker-Polito Administration Awards Four High Schools Designation for New Innovation Pathways

Baker-Polito Administration Awards Four High Schools Designation for New Innovation Pathways

Students in career pathways gain knowledge and skills through internships and college courses

BOSTON – Agawam, Atlantis Charter School in Fall River, Brockton and Burlington high schools will launch new Innovation Pathway programs this fall to give students skills and experience in particular industries through college courses and internships after recently receiving official designation status from the Departments of Elementary and Secondary Education and Higher Education, the Baker-Polito Administration announced today.

More than 1,000 students are expected to be enrolled in these college and career pathways when the new programs are fully enrolled. Twenty-five high schools in the Commonwealth now have Innovation Pathway programs designated by the state.

Launched in 2017, Innovation Pathways give students experience in a specific high-demand industry, such as information technology, engineering, healthcare, life sciences and advanced manufacturing, through coursework and internships at local area employers. Students earn college credits, at no cost to them, and gain insight as to whether the field is something they want to pursue in college or as a career.

“Innovation Pathways provide students with important additional knowledge and direction so they are prepared to pursue careers in high-demand industries in the Commonwealth,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “Our administration is very thankful to the high school administrators who are doing the hard work to launch these new career pathways so students in the Commonwealth are better prepared for success after graduation.” 

“Innovation Pathways also create strong partnerships with employers to expose students to career options and help them develop knowledge and skills related to their chosen field of study before they graduate high school,” said Lt. Governor Polito. “Governor Baker and I hope exposure to STEM subjects through these newly named programs will inspire students to further their studies and move toward growing careers in Massachusetts.”

The Governor’s education funding legislation, An Act to Promote Equity and Excellence in Education, proposed a new enrollment category that will provide additional funding for high schools that implement Early College and Career Pathway programs. The bill - still under consideration by the Legislature - would create a dependable revenue stream as part of a school district’s Chapter 70 aid for every student enrolled. Currently there are approximately 2,400 students enrolled in early college and career pathway programs.

“These new pathways will help address one of the Commonwealth’s biggest challenges in education – making sure students are prepared for college and careers,” Education Secretary James Peyser said. “Innovation Pathways, and its sister program early college, give students real experience in college and the workplace while they are still in high school, which is critical to ensure their future success.”

“I am happy to see more schools offer students the chance to explore subjects first-hand both in internships and through college courses,” Elementary and Secondary Education Commissioner Jeffrey C. Riley said. “These opportunities put students on a solid path to future possibilities.”

“I see this as an excellent opportunity for experiential learning,” said Carlos E. Santiago, Massachusetts Commissioner of High Education. “We know that training and retraining will be part of students’ futures and an ongoing part of their adult lives, so the more opportunities they have to ‘learn how to learn’ in both academic and work-based settings, the better.”

Four high schools received official designation for new Innovation Pathway programs:

Agawam High School – Agawam, MA          

Agawam High School is launching an Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Pathway that will serve 466 students when fully enrolled. The school is partnering with the MassHire Hampden County Workforce Board and multiple employer partners, including the Western Mass. Chapter of the National Tooling and Machining Association, Peerless Precision, Governor's America Corporation, Mechanical Plastics, OMG Roofing Products, Ben Franklin Manufacturing, EBTEC Corporation, and DFF Corporation. Students will take courses at Springfield Technical Community College.

Atlantis Charter School – Fall River, MA

Atlantis Charter School is launching three Innovation Pathways, including Advanced Manufacturing, Business & Finance, and Healthcare & Social Assistance that will serve 368 students when fully enrolled. The school is partnering with the MIT Integrated Design and management Program - SLOAN, the Southcoast Autism Center, and the Centre for Business and Entrepreneurship. Students will study Advanced Placement courses as well as have opportunities for job shadow, internships, and externships.

Brockton High School – Brockton, MA

Brockton High School is launching an Innovation Pathway in Healthcare that will serve 193 students when fully enrolled. The school is partnering with the MassHire Greater Brockton Workforce Board, area employers, and the Forsyth Institute Student Scholars Program. Students will take courses at Massasoit Community College, Bay State College, and Bridgewater State University.

Burlington High School – Burlington, MA

Burlington High School is launching an Innovation Pathway in Information, with a computer science focus, that will serve 88 students when fully enrolled. The school is partnering with the MassHire Metro North Workforce Board, the Burlington Chamber of Commerce, Amazon Web Services, The MITRE Corporation, and Microsoft, among a number of other area employers.

CAPAC Members Applaud Successful Passage of Amendment to Address Racial Profiling of Chinese Americans

CAPAC Members Applaud Successful Passage of Amendment to Address Racial Profiling of Chinese Americans

Washington, DC —  Today the House voted 397-31 to pass H.R. 3494, the Damon Paul Nelson and Matthew Young Pollard Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020. Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) member Rep. Ed Case (HI-01) successfully added an amendment to the bill to address concerns of stereotyping, targeting and racial profiling of Chinese Americans. The amendment would require the Director of National Intelligence to submit a report to Congress on how current intelligence policies, procedures, and practices targeting the People’s Republic of China may also impact the privacy and civil liberties of Chinese Americans. CAPAC Members released the following statements:

Congresswoman Judy Chu (CA-27), CAPAC Chair:

“I am pleased that Congressman Case’s amendment to address the profiling of Chinese Americans was included in the Intelligence Authorization Act passed today. While there is no doubt that we must take national security threats from foreign countries seriously, we must reject the flawed narrative that simply being of Chinese descent is grounds for suspicion. Such overly broad stereotyping, targeting and racial profiling is dangerous and runs contrary to the values of our nation.

“Unfortunately, we have seen how certain actions by our government directed at Chinese nationals have impacted U.S. citizens. We need to look no further than the examples of Sherry Chen and Dr. Xioaxing Xi, two Chinese American scientists who were wrongfully accused of espionage by the FBI only to have their charges dropped with no explanation. We must ensure that what happened to these two innocent Americans does not happen to other U.S. citizens simply because of the way they look. There must be no room for racial prejudice and ethnic targeting in our country’s laws and practices.”

Congressman Ed Case (HI-01) :

“In these recent years of justifiably heightened scrutiny on the intelligence activities of the People’s Republic of China, a disproportionate number of Americans of Chinese descent have been investigated and prosecuted for espionage. Those convicted have received disproportionately high sentences and the too many exonerated have had their careers ruined nonetheless.

“No doubt China seeks to recruit Chinese Americans to its goals, and no doubt our government should and must review specific cases of potential espionage by China on specific facts. But have we fallen into the same trap all over again of justifying investigations and other actions toward the end of national security by the means of general profiling and targeting based solely on ethnic identity?

“This amendment is a flashing red light to our intelligence community: stop, look and listen. Take some time to think it through, to be sure you’re staying on the right side of that line, and then report back to Congress that you have done so and have the procedures and mindset in place to assure that we won’t repeat history, with Chinese Americans or any other broad ethnic or interest group.”

Congresswoman Grace Meng (NY-06), CAPAC First Vice Chair:

“U.S. intelligence agencies play a critical role in keeping our nation safe and secure from foreign and domestic threats, but such protections must not come at the expense of American citizens’ civil liberties,” said Meng. “Many Chinese Americans have been targeted based on groundless accusations that they are spies of China. We know that many of those cases have been proven wrong. That is why I’m pleased to support Mr. Case’s amendment that will ask the intelligence community to submit a report to Congress on how it protects the civil rights and privacy of Chinese Americans.  I look forward to reading this report.”

Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (WA-07):

“Representative Case’s amendment is a critical step toward protecting Chinese Americans from racial profiling by the Intelligence Community. I am proud to represent a district with a large and vibrant Chinese American community; any efforts to racially profile them or infringe upon their civil liberties are contrary to our values.”

Congressman Ro Khanna (CA-17):

“No American of any gender, race or ethnicity should be singled out or regarded as suspicious for their identity,” said Rep. Ro Khanna. “I’m proud to support Rep. Case’s amendment to the FY2020 Intelligence Authorization and protect Chinese Americans from racial profiling by U.S. intelligence services. This is about transparency across our government: everyone deserves to be treated with the same level of respect and trust.”

Congresswoman Nydia Velázquez (NY-07)

“We’ve repeatedly seen instances of Chinese American scientists and scholars being unfairly and falsely accused of espionage or disloyalty.  Representing Chinatown and Sunset Park, I’ve heard from many in New York’s Asian community who are deeply concerned by this discriminatory treatment.  This amendment will bring greater transparency to the intelligence community and help ensure that the civil liberties of Americans of Chinese descent are protected.”

蘭亭雅聚承辦第三屆四海書院筆會 8/2-3

(Boston Orange) 四海書院第三屆筆會將由蘭亭雅聚承辦，訂8月2日及3日，在大波士頓內歷史名屋Henderson House舉行。何麗雪(Shelley Hawks)和白謙慎兩位博士，將應邀主講兩場學術講座。

四海書院成立於2017年，是位於於芝加哥的一個非營利組織，宗旨為普及書法教育，昇華書寫文化，弘揚書道，開啟課程。自成立以來，已先後在芝加哥，西雅圖舉辦過二屆筆會。

蘭亭雅聚成立於2012年，是一個位於大波士頓的書法愛好者互動平台。

第三屆四海書院筆會將安排有兩場學術講座，以及書道交流學習、書法作品欣賞、即興揮毫創作等活動。

會場圖片。

兩場講座將分別由何麗雪，白謙慎兩位博士主講，

從哈佛大學取得東亞研究碩士，布朗大學取得歷史博士學位，早年曾在波士頓美術博物館任助理，目前在多所大專院校任教的何麗雪，將以”從潘天壽、石魯，李可染、李苦禪的藝術中探索繪畫與書法之內在聯繫”為題，發表講談。

畢業於北京大學國際政治系，來美進修，後轉至耶魯大學取得藝術史博士學位，師從班宗華，曾在波士頓大學教藝術史，2015經浙江大學邀回中國教文化遺產研究，並於2019年出任浙大藝術與考古學院院長的白謙慎，目前還是四海書院名譽院長。他將以”關於中國書法經典的若干問題”為題，發表講談。

四海書院院長李躍林，蘭亭雅聚負責人齊雅明當天將先後致詞，在琴棋書畫中與出席者交流。

筆會的兩天入場費為20元，歡迎另外捐款，會場停車免費。查詢詳情可上網https://7seascalligraphy.org。

波士頓僑務委員會議說明會

波士頓僑務委員會議說明會出席者合影。前排左起，李壽泮，李伍綺蓮，梅錫銳，蔣宗壬，陳家驊，歐宏偉，陳仕維，馮文鸞。(周菊子攝)

(Boston Orange 周菊子牛頓市報導)持有中華民國護照，才能當僑務委員? 7月13日在波士頓僑教中心舉行的「僑務委員會議說明會」中，這問題成為討論重點。

波士頓僑教中心為加強波士頓僑民與僑委會經辦僑務情況的了解，7月13日下午特地舉辦「僑務委員會議說明會」，請5月份回台灣參加僑務委員會議的僑務委員蔣宗壬，以及紐英崙中華公所主席陳家驊、全美安良工商會總理陳仕維等3人出席做簡報。

僑教中心主任歐宏偉在會中一再強調，僑胞們對該次僑務會議有任何問題，都歡迎提出，討論。

由於一任三年的僑務委員預定一年半後換屆，根據僑委會規定，持有中華民國護照者才有資格出任，但波士頓老僑社區有這護照者，屈指可數。陳仕維在簡報之外，因此提出可否放寬資格的建議。

港澳之友社社長余麗媖因此提問，在美居住華人，是否可申請中華民國護照?

出席者中來自香港的鄒姓夫婦則稱，他倆曾經從波士頓經文處那兒申請到中華民國海外護照。

歐宏偉主任回應表示，配偶持有中華民國護照者，也可申請。據他所知，中華民國護照只有一種，希望鄒姓夫婦能把他倆所說的護照給他看一下，將可代為查證。

第一次出席僑務會議的陳仕維，對這次會議發給每名出席者一塊平板，所有的會議通知，議程，相關資料及討論內容，都藉平板傳達，實質的召開了一次無紙會議，以行動保護環境，很是印象深刻。

陳仕維也讚許僑委會推動設立海外急難救助協會，還見證這次開會，有唱國歌環節。

僑居美國數十年，三年一任的僑務委員職位，也已做到第二任一半的蔣宗壬，在會上不忌諱地埋怨，到台灣出席僑務會議，很多時候都覺得，台下聽的人可能比台上講的人還懂得多，有點浪費時間。他直言，講廣東話的老僑和講國語的新僑，背景各不相同，處事做法有異，想要水乳交融，並不容易。他還記得幾十年前他初到波士頓，曾經和大波士頓中華文化協會的人一起進華埠服務，不少老僑卻以為他們去搶地盤，對他們的態度非常不好，類似這樣的新僑，老僑隔閡，其實在台灣的大官們，根本不清楚。

蔣宗廷認為。年紀大些的僑胞，不太計較藍綠，只要對國家好，就都支持。但是他近年觀察到，在僑務會議中，年輕僑領站邊站得很厲害。這種顏色之分，新僑，老僑之分，有人支持台獨，有人只要不提中華民國就可以，有人堅決支持中華民國等等的立場，使得”我們”的僑社比其他國家的僑社分化得更厲害許多，如何團結僑胞，凝聚僑心，會是很重要的課題。

                    會末，歐宏偉鼓勵僑胞踴躍組團回台灣，參加十月國慶、使用自費體驗的優質醫療服務，鼓勵加入僑務電子報讀者群、使用僑胞卡及特約商店等等。

華人前進會籲亞裔社區支持梅西百貨化妝香水部工人加入工會

華人前進會行政主任陳秀珍在爭取權益活動中發言。

               (Boston Orange) 波士頓市中心梅西百貨(Macy’s)的化妝品和香水部工作人員，將於7月19日投票，以決定是否加入工會。華人前進會與美國亞太裔勞工聯盟麻州分會-AFLCIO，工人移民中心聯盟，勞工社區聯盟呼籲亞裔社區支持。

              華人前進會為此發出新聞稿，指工人若有工會合同，可在基本勞動權利以外，獲得更多保障，包括更好的加薪，更多的有薪病假，可負擔的健康保險，牙及視力保險，養老金福利計畫等等。

              華人前進會指出，梅西百貨的化妝品及香水部門是該公司唯一的非工會部門，7月19日，若有超過50%的工人投票支持成立工會，該部門員工將可加入梅西百貨其他部門同事在5月19日獲批准的工會合同。

              查詢相關詳情可上網<https://www.facebook.com/ufcwlocal1445/>。

中華耆英會白禮頓樓七月慶生

合唱團合影。(白禮頓樓提供)

壽星黃美寶。

(Boston Orange)中華耆英會白禮頓樓7月12日慶生，載歌載舞的祝賀兩名壽星，黃美寶，鍾恩禧。白禮頓樓主任梅麗梨也獻花，送禮物，和聚會耆英們歡樂一下午。

生日派對由李積秀、樂趙令瑜擔任司儀。李積秀帶著出席眾人大合唱”在那遙遠的地方”，”故鄉的雨”，鄧東慧老師和舞蹈組表演”夜上海”，李潤蓮鋼琴伴奏，何佩榮與張洋合唱”莫斯科郊外的晚上”，”茉莉花”。樂趙令瑜和國語組合唱"天佑美國"，"蘭花草”，”The star spangled banner”，楊澤瑞、馬愛慈表演蒙古舞蹈”草原上的月亮”。

鄧東慧與舞蹈組合影。

出席耆英們，台上唱跳，台下拍掌，大家都笑得很開心。抽獎環節由司徒汶安和楊蒙娜主持，抽到獎品的人更是為自己這天幸運，笑得合不攏嘴。

中華耆英會白禮頓樓表示，7月30日上午10點半，該會將舉辦”壽地平安服務”講座。8月份另有很多精采節目。查詢詳情可洽朱小姐。

中華耆英會白禮頓樓地址：677 Cambridge Street, Brighton, MA 02135），聯繫電話為：（617）789-4289。

Baker-Polito Administration Awards $1 Million to Town of Millbury to Address Climate Change Impacts

Baker-Polito Administration Awards $1 Million to Town of Millbury to Address Climate Change Impacts

For high resolution and additional photos, click here.

MILLBURY – Governor Charlie Baker and Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Kathleen Theoharides today joined state and local officials to award a $1 million grant to the Town of Millbury for a climate change adaption project, part of $12 million awarded to communities throughout the Commonwealth through the Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP) Program. Additionally, Governor Baker spoke about the need for his Resilient MA legislation to provide a dedicated, sustainable funding source to invest in important local climate change resilience projects like Millbury’s.

“Massachusetts has been a national leader in addressing climate change, and these grants represent the Commonwealth’s largest funding commitment ever to improving community resiliency,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “We look forward to working with our legislative colleagues to pass our bill to continue important initiatives like the MVP program to mitigate climate change, build more resilient communities, protect residents and natural resources, and help generate economic growth and innovation throughout the Commonwealth.”

“Our Administration is committed to partnering with cities and towns to develop practical and cost-effective solutions to build the climate-resilient communities of tomorrow,” said Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito. “We are proud to support this important climate resilience project in Millbury and many others across the Commonwealth that will foster stronger communities and improve the environment.”

The Town of Millbury received a $1 million grant for the Armory Village Green Infrastructure Project. As part of a larger downtown revitalization effort, the project will reduce flooding and stormwater runoff to the Blackstone River through the use of green infrastructure like stormwater planters, bioretention bump-outs, rain gardens, tree box filters, tree planting and porous pavement.

The Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs’ MVP grant and designation program, which builds on Governor Baker’s Executive Order 569 as well as other administration-led state and local partnerships, provides communities with technical support, climate change data and planning tools to identify hazards and develop strategies to improve resilience. This funding is part of the largest release of climate change resilience funding for Massachusetts communities in state history.

“The record participation in the Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness Program underscores the real need for climate-smart solutions that promote strong local economies while reducing risks and avoiding future costs,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Kathleen Theoharides. “The Baker-Polito Administration is committed to supporting municipalities in getting this work off the ground through the ResilientMA legislation, which would provide a new and sustained funding source for climate resilience projects.”

Through the MVP Program, municipalities identify key climate-related hazards, vulnerabilities and strengths, develop adaptation actions and prioritize next steps.  Results of the workshops and planning efforts inform existing local plans, grant applications, and policies. Communities are then eligible for competitive MVP Action Grant funding to implement priority on-the-ground projects. With this announcement, 71 percent of Commonwealth communities have received MVP Planning Grants, while 70 climate change resilience projects have received MVP Action Grants.

Of the $12 million awarded, $1.7 million was awarded to 65 communities to pursue a community-led planning process to identify vulnerabilities to climate change and priority actions. The remaining $10.3 million was awarded to 34 communities that had completed the planning process and are ready to implement projects that build local resilience to climate change impacts. 

“While Massachusetts continues to be a leader in pursuing clean energy options, it’s also important to help communities identify opportunities to reduce risks and to build resilience against potential threats such as extreme weather and climate-related hazards,” said Senator Michael Moore (D-Millbury), who previously served as an Environmental Police Officer. “This funding through the MVP program will go a long way to help my hometown of Millbury adapt to climate change, and to implement recommendations previously identified by the community.” 

“This is a terrific project the state is investing in with Millbury which has multiple positive impacts for the environment, public safety, handicap accessibility, economic development and downtown revitalization,” said State Representative Paul Frost (R-Auburn). “I express my appreciation to the Baker-Polito Administration and Secretary Kathleen Theoharides of Energy and Environmental Affairs for their support of this grant program and recognizing how this can make a difference for Millbury’s downtown.”

Governor Baker filed the Resilient MA legislation to support municipalities and help protect Massachusetts residents, communities, economy, natural resources and infrastructure from the adverse effects of climate change, through an increase in the excise on real estate transfers to fund a substantial and sustained investment in climate change adaptation through programs like MVP. The revenue would be directed towards investments in resilient infrastructure to help make communities safer, keep vital services online, reduce the long-term costs of climate-related risks and protect the value of property across the Commonwealth. The proposal is estimated to generate $1.3 billion over 10 years which would be deposited into the Commonwealth’s Global Warming Solutions Trust Fund to support municipalities and regional municipal partnerships through loans, grants and technical assistance to implement priority adaptation projects.

The MVP program implements Executive Order 569, which established an integrated strategy for climate change adaptation across the Commonwealth. Local climate change vulnerabilities and actions identified through the MVP program inform the Statewide Hazard Mitigation and Adaptation Plan – a blueprint to protect residents, communities, and local economies. The funding available through the MVP program builds upon the Baker-Polito Administration’s continued commitment to mitigate and adapt to climate change

天滿街288-290號將建171個100%可負擔住宅單位

                      (Boston Orange 周菊子波士頓綜合報導) 波士頓市天滿街288-290號的12號地段(P- 12C)，將由4組織合作，建成30層高，有171個住宅單位的100%可負擔大樓。

                  波士頓前鋒報(Boston Herald)和波士頓商業雜誌(BBJ)，7月16日都再發文報導，強調這將是一棟所有住宅單位都有收入限制的100%可負擔大樓，一樓還將留出空位，建永久性的波士頓華埠公共圖書館。

                         千禧年夥伴(Millennium Partners)和亞美社區發展協會(ACDC)，柯柯仁堅尼遜(Corcoran Jennison)公司，附屬於塔芙茨醫療中心的塔芙茨分享服務(Tufts Shared Services)公司等四機構，早從2018年1月就已向波士頓計畫及發展部門(BPDA)提案，要在天滿街288-290號這原為停車場的土地上，建一棟30層高，共171個有收入限制單位，有416,500平方呎的綜合用途大樓。

                           千禧年夥伴在2016年時，計畫斥資13億元，在波士頓市政擁有的停車場，也就是溫卓普廣場(Winthrop Square)115號上，蓋一棟綜合用途大樓。根據市府規定，如果他們不在所建大樓內留出固定百分比的可負擔住宅單位，就必須在另一個地點建造同樣數量的可負擔住宅。千禧年夥伴因此找了亞美社區發展協會這非牟利機構合作。

                       波士頓市政府在同年稍後，要這兩個機構合作，發展波士頓市政府擁有的另一塊停車場，也就是天滿街288-290號。

                     這一發展計畫，還將拓展柯柯仁堅尼遜公司所擁有的雙樹酒店(DoubleTree Hotel )，以及塔芙茨停車場。

                    這171個單位，有的出租，有的出售，全都有收入限制。亞美社區發展協會行政主任劉安琪表示，這對華埠來說尤其重要。

           根據BuildUp的網站資料，這棟大樓的估計造價為1億7400萬元，一樓會是波士頓華埠公共圖書館，二樓有會議中心，晚宴廳，4到10樓會是酒店房間，11樓到29樓會是住宅單位，面積為600到1,200平方呎不等，其中45間為出租公寓，126間為出售的共管公寓。

出租公寓部分， 會有15個1睡房單位，25個2睡房單位，5個3睡房單位。9個，36個單位，依序預定出租給家庭收入不超過地區中位收入30%，60%人家。

出售的共管公寓部分，會有42個一睡房單位，70個兩睡房單位，以及4個3睡房單位。出售對象為家庭年收入在地區中位收入的70%到100%人家。

波士頓慈濟訂八月十七日舉辦祈福會

             (Boston Orange) 佛教慈濟基金會波士頓聯絡處將於8月17日(週六)上午11點至下午2點，舉辦祈福活動，宣導”七月原是吉祥月”理念，並於8月份內和花蓮靜思精舍連線，舉辦3場”地藏經”共修。

             波士頓慈濟發出新聞稿指出，農曆七月是佛教及詳月，也是佛陀的歡喜月，感恩的孝親月。1974年時，慈濟證嚴上人就開始詳述蘭盆法會，普渡的真義，期許慈濟人深入社區，推動正知，正見，正信佛教，了解"真正的普渡觀念。2003年又開始把法會轉變為祈福會形式，在社區當地，舉辦各種愛灑祈福活動，宣導”七月原是吉祥月”的理念。

             8月份起，波士頓慈濟將和花蓮靜思精舍連線，由常住師父帶領，舉辦3場”地藏經”共修，與全球慈濟人一起虔誠誦念，為世間祈福。

             8月17日(週六)上午11點至下午2點，波士頓慈濟將舉辦”七月祈福”活動，以敬愛天地聚福緣的心念，感懷親恩，推動蔬食三好，健康好，環境好，尊重生命好的力行環保，疼惜大地。

             活動當天，波士頓慈濟將備蔬食點與來賓分享，歡迎來賓購買健康食品，素食料理食譜，醫療健保書籍等靜思法品。聯絡處還有二手物惜福站，與來賓分享延續物命，資源再利用，落實護生，環保理念。

波士頓慈濟表示，今年極端氣候影響劇烈，環境變異災害層出，3月份時熱帶氣旋伊代，造成東非莫三比克、辛巴威及馬拉威等三國嚴重受損，慈濟人深入災區援助。在吉祥月活動期間，慈濟還將佈展援助東非三國足跡，讓愛”非”揚的系列報導，勸募愛心。

查詢活動訊息，可洽(617)762-0569。

Baker-Polito Administration Celebrates the Start of the 2019 Summer Nights Initiative

Baker-Polito Administration Celebrates the Start of the 2019 Summer Nights Initiative

For high resolution and additional photos, click here.

BOSTON – Governor Charlie Baker and Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito today joined Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Kathleen Theoharides, Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) Commissioner Leo Roy, state and local officials, and key partners to celebrate the start of the 2019 Summer Nights Initiative at the DCR’s Dillaway-Thomas House in Roxbury. Since 2015, the Baker-Polito Administration has invested in additional recreational opportunities, such as increased programming and the extension of operating hours at several DCR water facilities, in select urban communities across the state for youth to enjoy during the summer vacation months.

“Our administration launched this program in 2015 to provide young people across the Commonwealth with the chance to participate in recreational and educational activities, and we’re proud to kick-off another summer,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “The goal of Summer Nights is to provide safe, inclusive and fun events for kids in dozens of communities to enjoy our parks and pools and we are grateful for the organizations who participate in this program.”

This year, the administration has partnered with 14 organizations within several cities, including the City of Boston’s Dorchester, Hyde Park, Jamaica Plain, Mattapan, Roxbury, and South End neighborhoods. Furthermore, eight state pools and two spray decks will have extended hours on Thursdays, including seven facilities in the Greater Boston area.

“Thanks to the Summer Nights Initiative and many involved stakeholders, youth from around the state are able to participate in excellent programming that is tailored to meet their interests and needs throughout July and August,” said Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito.“The Summer Nights Initiative serves as a great example of state government working in partnership with key stakeholders to meet a shared goal that directly benefits the public.”

The Baker-Polito Administration is working in conjunction with 14 community partners to provide an exciting schedule of recreational, educational, cultural, and arts programs for kids, teens, and young adults to learn new skills and socialize with one another. Programs such as basketball, flag-football, floor hockey, kickball, dodgeball, volleyball, and ping pong, as well as, dancing, fitness, talent shows, and arts and crafts will be featured. The DCR’s program partners are Score4More (Jamaica Plain & Dorchester); PIM (Hyde Park & Dorchester); Youth Connect (Worcester); NAACP (Roxbury); MLK Family Services (Springfield); En Motion (Springfield); Originations (Roxbury); Boys and Girls Club of  Lawrence (Lawrence/Methuen); Boys and Girls Club of Greater Lowell (Greater Lowell); Dennison Community Center (New Bedford); Boys and Girls Club of Metro South (Brockton); Elevate Boston Foundation (Roxbury); Lena Park Community Center (Dorchester); and, Black Ministerial Alliance (Mattapan, Dorchester, Roxbury and South End).

“The Summer Nights Initiative provides a great opportunity for children to get outside and experience enriching programs and healthy activities all summer long,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Kathleen Theoharides. “Importantly, by keeping parks and swimming facilities open a little longer and offering special programming with partners, children will remain engaged during the school vacation season.”

The Dillaway-Thomas House, which is located at Roxbury Heritage State Park in Boston, recently underwent a major $3.7 million renovation project in an effort to preserve the historic landmark for future generations to use. Renovations that were made to the building include structural improvements, restoration of historic components, upgrades to the electrical systems, and park improvements. As a result of the enhanced space, the NAACP’s Boston Branch will be hosting an entrepreneurship course at the facility for 24 youths between the ages of 16-19 to teach them how to create, market, and sell their own products during the Summer Nights Initiative program.

“Economic opportunity is one of our country’s longstanding promises. Yet, economic inequality is a reality for so many of our families,” said Tanisha M. Sullivan, President of the NAACP Boston Branch. “To help address this challenge we are thrilled to launch our summer initiative for young people who are interested in learning how they can chart their own path to economic freedom. In collaboration with the Baker-Polito Administration, Street2Ivy, and several private and philanthropic organizations, this program is creating a new blueprint for summertime in the city.”

Additionally, the popular Free Family Flicks movie series will once again be offered by the DCR this summer. Movies will be shown at six locations throughout the state, with four locations in or near Boston (Martini Memorial Shell in Hyde Park, Sylvester Baxter State Park in Somerville, the Charles River Esplanade’s Hatch Memorial Shell in the Back Bay, and Pope John Paul II Park in Dorchester). Featured movies include: Ralph Breaks the Internet; Mary Poppins Returns; Spiderman into the Spider Verse; Bumblebee; The Lego Movie 2; How To Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World; Captain Marvel; and, Dumbo. The Free Family Flicks program provides family fun and entertainment at no charge (parking fees may apply depending on location).

For a full list of programming, please visit the DCR’s Summer Nights Initiative webpage