波士頓市訂6月8日起連辦5場活動慶祝"驕傲月"

MAYOR WU ANNOUNCES A VERY PROUD CITY An initiative aimed at celebrating Pride Month with a series of events throughout Downtown Boston that are free and open to the public.

BOSTON - Thursday, June 2, 2022 - Mayor Michelle Wu, in partnership with the Office of Economic Opportunity and Inclusion, Office of Equity and Inclusion, and Men of Melanin Magic, today announce A Very Proud City, an LGBTQ+ Pride series with events to take place throughout Downtown Boston.  “I’m so excited to be in community and celebrate Pride this month,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “A Very Proud City series will center our LGBTQ+ residents, support local organizations and amplify events that highlight and serve our LGBTQ+ community. I’m grateful to all of our partners for working to ensure that we are celebrating our queer communities and I encourage everyone to stop by these events.” “We are excited to welcome everyone back to Downtown Boston to celebrate Pride with our LGBTQ+ communities,” said Segun Idowu, Chief of Economic Opportunity and Inclusion. “As we emerge out of the pandemic, this is a tremendous opportunity to join our queer residents in spreading joy, love, and acceptance to all within our city.” “I have attended a few of Men of Melanin Magic events in the past and I am incredibly excited to partner with them this PRIDE to amplify queer joy and resilience in Downtown,” said Mariangely Solis Cervera, Chief of Equity & Inclusion. “Just yesterday, we kicked off PRIDE at City Hall with spoken word and drag performances. I can't wait to celebrate A Very Proud City this summer with such a talented group.” “I’m excited to jumpstart this welcoming and inclusive initiative the day after we kicked off Pride Month at City Hall,” said Quincey J. Roberts, Sr., Executive Director for the Mayor’s Office of LGBTQ+ Advancement. “A Very Proud City will serve as a place for community connection and joy for our residents while also supporting local LGBTQ+ organizations.”   A Very Proud City is a key part of the City’s effort to celebrate Pride with gatherings throughout the entire month of June, highlighting connection, resilience, art, and joy for all Bostonians. With events located in Downtown Boston, A Very Proud City is also part of a concerted and intentional effort to re-open the city as part of Mayor Wu’s Boston Blooms series, welcoming back LGBTQ+ communities to Downtown.  Beginning on June 8, A Very Proud City will take place every Wednesday in June. All of the events are open to the public and free of charge, with a wide range of activities for families and adults. A Very Proud City Schedule: BOP-ley Square – Wednesday, June 8 Location: Copley Square Park @ In Front of the Trinity Church Boston 560 Boylston St Boston, MA  02116 United States Description: The Ultimate Tea Dance Block Party Time: 5pm-8pm District Q – Wednesday, June 15  Location: Sam Adams Park at Faneuil Hall @ North st and Congress st. 1 Faneuil Hall Sq Boston MA 02109 Description: An eclectic Queer Marketplace Time: 4pm-7pm NetWerq  – Wednesday, June 15  Location: Rooftop of Sam Adams Taproom Description: A casual gathering for folks to meet and collaborate with other queer entrepreneurs, organizers, creators, and community members Time:  6:30pm-8:30pm DanceTown Crossing – Wednesday, June 22 Location: Downtown Crossing @ Summer Street and Washington Street 8 Summer St Boston, MA 02110 United States Description: Dance Variety Show featuring local queer dance groups and drag performers Time: 5pm-8pm Pride Calling – Wednesday, June 29 Location: Boston Common @ the Parade Grounds Description: Benefit Concert to establish a Mutual Aid Fund specific to helping queer people in need. Time: 5pm-8pm  For more information please click here.

麻州州長參選人Maura Healey 獲麻州參議會議長 Spilka 支持

         (Boston Orange 綜合編譯) 麻州民主黨訂6月3及4日在Worcester召開黨代表大會，麻州州長候選人奚莉 (Maura Healey) 6月2日宣佈，麻州參議會議長Karen Spilka 背書支持她。

                  現為在位麻州總檢察長的奚莉表示，她和Karen Silka共事多年，在使麻州成為對抗環境危機，轉型成為清潔能源經濟的全美領袖，把安全、合法墮胎寫入州法等許多事務上都攜手合作。

               在麻州民主黨黨代表大會投票決定今年的麻州州長選舉，將提名誰來代表民主黨參選前，Karen Spilka和多名麻州政要將輪番上台致詞。

                 Karen Spilka在一份聲明中表示，麻州總檢察長奚莉能夠凝聚人們得到成果，會毫不猶豫的為了對麻州人民有益的事情挺身而出，是一名歷經考驗的領袖。在麻州面對的許多緊迫問題上，她也是麻州參議會強而有力的夥伴。

                  麻州眾議會議長 Ron Mariano早在將近2個月前，就已經宣佈他將支持奚莉參選麻州州長。其他的重量級支持者包括聯邦眾議院助理議長Katherine Clark，以及眾議員Lori Trahan。

                奚莉和她的競爭對手陳翟蘇妮 (Sonia Chang-Diaz) 都必須在麻州民主黨黨代表大會中得到15%的支持票，才能夠名列9月份麻州州長選舉初選時的民主黨候選人選票。一般預期，她們兩人都能夠得到比這比率還多的支持。

               陳翟蘇妮在獲悉Karen Spilka的支持選擇後表示，她為通過真正能幫助打工家庭的法案，向畢肯丘 (Beacon Hill，意指麻州政府或議會)上的領袖們挑戰，已逾10年。當然這些領袖沒有支持她。但是她為自己在要求畢肯丘上在位多年者負起責任的記錄，感到自豪，包括通過了15億元的激進教育經費改革，刑事司法改革，種族平等條款，以及變性者權益等。每一次她都寧願選擇促使那些法案通過，而不是爭取那些在位者的支持。

             奚莉和Karen Spilka在西部都會日報 (MetroWest Daily News) 上聯名發表了一篇文章，呼籲在精神健康方面做投資。 Spilka 支持奚莉選麻州州長的廣告，就放在這篇文章的旁邊。

                  波士頓環球報稱，許多人認為這場民主黨提名選舉，等同今年的麻州州長選舉，因為共和黨籍的麻州現任州長查理貝克 (Charlie Baker)已經宣佈，不競選連任，而美國前總統川普 (Donald Trump)為2024年鋪路的選舉，在麻州連一個郡都沒贏到。

             曾任麻州眾議員的Geoff Diehl上個月已贏得共和黨麻州黨代表大會提名，另一名共和黨籍州長參選人Chris Doughty也獲得足夠的黨代表支持，可以名列共和黨的初選選票。

Highlighting Commitment to Addressing Mental Health Crisis, Senate President Spilka Endorses Healey for Governor

 BOSTON – Massachusetts Senate President Karen Spilka (D-Ashland) today endorsed Maura Healey for Governor. In an op-ed published in the Metrowest Daily News today, the pair outlined their shared commitment to addressing Massachusetts’ mental health crisis, pointing to the need to dismantle stigma, invest in the mental health care workforce, and enforce parity laws.

 “Attorney General Maura Healey is a proven leader who brings people together to deliver results and won’t hesitate to stand up for what’s right for the people of Massachusetts,” said Senate President Karen Spilka. “She has been a strong partner to the State Senate on the most pressing issues facing the state, particularly in confronting the mental health and opioid crises. I know that with Maura Healey as Governor, we will build on our progress to make Massachusetts a healthier, stronger, and fairer home for all.”

 “I’m honored to receive the endorsement of Senate President Karen Spilka. Over the years, we have worked closely together to make Massachusetts a national leader on combating the climate crisis and transitioning to a clean energy economy, to enshrine access to safe and legal abortion into state law, and much more,” said Maura Healey. “One area in which the Senate President and I share a deep passion is improving Massachusetts’ mental health care system. We have seen this crisis firsthand, both in our roles in state government and in our private lives. Together, we can ensure that mental health care is treated as health care here in Massachusetts, that everyone can access the care they need, and that no one struggles alone.”

MAYOR WU, BOSTON HOUSING AUTHORITY, AND 2LIFE COMMUNITIES CELEBRATE THE START OF CONSTRUCTION AT JJ CARROLL APARTMENTS IN BRIGHTON

MAYOR WU, BOSTON HOUSING AUTHORITY, AND 2LIFE COMMUNITIES CELEBRATE THE START OF CONSTRUCTION AT JJ CARROLL APARTMENTS IN BRIGHTON Project to replace 64 aging public housing units with 142 affordable homes for Boston seniors and disabled adults

BOSTON – Thursday, June 2, 2022 – Mayor Michelle Wu joined the Boston Housing Authority (BHA), 2Life Communities, local residents, and community partners Thursday morning to celebrate the groundbreaking for the redevelopment of JJ Carroll Apartments in Brighton. In partnership with 2Life Communities and the BHA, this project will replace an aging 64-unit Boston Housing Authority public housing community and add significant new affordable housing to Brighton. The new JJ Carroll will include 142 modern, affordable homes built to serve and support seniors and residents with disabilities in the community, including 114 deeply affordable units under the Project-Based Section 8 Voucher Program, 27 affordable units through Low Income Housing Tax Credits, and one unit for an on-site manager. The apartments will be connected to 2Life’s existing 763-apartment Brighton community and connect to the campus through an enclosed pedestrian bridge. “One of our highest priorities is ensuring that Boston’s seniors and disabled residents are able to continue to live and thrive in the city they’ve always known,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “This project meets that challenge and more. We are preserving JJ Carroll’s affordability and more than doubling the number of residents who can live here. This is a great day for Boston’s seniors.”  “This is a win-win for our JJ Carroll residents and for the Brighton neighborhood,” said BHA Administrator Kate Bennett. “For our residents, this project will offer them brand new, modern, quality homes with the same affordability, a wonderful array of services, and a strong and supportive community that is already thriving right next door. For Brighton, this project adds 77 additional affordable units that the neighborhood desperately needs.” All BHA residents have been temporarily relocated to other BHA or 2Life housing and will be able to return to the newly rebuilt JJ Carroll site when construction is completed. “2Life is thrilled to develop these beautiful homes that will demonstrate the enormous benefits of integrating housing and health care,” said 2Life Communities CEO, Amy Schectman. “We are also thrilled to welcome new residents to our vibrant Brighton campus.” The redevelopment effort was made possible with funds and loans from MassHousing, the City of Boston, the Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development, the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, Wells Fargo, Dorfman Capital, and MassSave. “MassHousing is excited to be part of this effort by the BHA and 2Life Communities to develop 142 brand new affordable apartment homes for lower-income senior citizens who otherwise may be displaced from housing in the city with expiring affordability,” said MassHousing Executive Director Chrystal Kornegay. “2Life is nationally recognized for its innovative and quality approach to housing the Commonwealth’s seniors.” "I want to thank Mayor Wu, the Boston Housing Authority, our state partners, and everyone involved in the revitalization of the JJ Carroll community," said HUD New England Regional Administrator Juana Matias. "This property meets a critical need by providing affordable housing with services that will enhance the lives of seniors in the Brighton community.  HUD is proud to be part of this amazing collaboration that considered the housing and health needs of residents in addition to promoting efficient and sustainable building practices in every aspect of the design." The new JJ Carroll will integrate with 2Life’s existing Brighton community, allowing new residents barrier-free access to 2Life’s services and community life. The first floor of the new building will include a new PACE Center (Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly) operated by Element Care. PACE is a progressive health and social services program that focuses on healthy living, active engagement, and preventative care for low-income older adults, and will serve residents of the 2Life campus as well as older adults in the broader community.  “The Governor’s Council to Address Aging identified the importance of bringing supportive services and affordable housing together for older adults in Massachusetts to thrive, and today we are seeing that recommendation in action,” said Massachusetts Secretary of Health and Human Services Marylou Sudders. “The PACE center will provide tremendous benefits to the residents at JJ Carroll and the entire Brighton community.” The new JJ Carroll will include fully adaptable spaces that enable residents to remain at home regardless of physical ability. The new buildings will be built to LEED Silver and Passive House standards for sustainability and efficiency, offering improved health, economic and environmental benefits to residents and will minimize the site’s carbon footprint. The renovation and creation of new housing at the JJ Carroll housing development aligns with the Wu administration’s goal to produce more affordable housing for older Bostonians. In the last five years, 552 new senior units have been completed or are currently in construction in the City of Boston. Of these, 515 or 93% of these units are income-restricted units for individuals 55 and older, with 494 created for low-income individuals making at or below $56,400 or 60% AMI, and 21 were created for moderate-income individuals with income limits at or below $70,750 or 80% AMI. In addition to the effort at JJ Carroll, the Pryde in Hyde Park will start construction soon on 74 new units of income-restricted housing for older LGBTQ residents. The City of Boston has nine more housing developments for older residents in the pipeline that will create another 365 income-restricted units.  "A PACE Center for JJ Carroll residents with Element Care means an entire team of clinical and social service providers located centrally where seniors already live,” said Joanne Duby, MD, Medical Director of Element Care. “You can truly take care of the whole person." “Designing with 2Life and the JJ Carroll community was an invaluable process of listening and developing a shared vision for what this project can do to have a lasting positive impact,” said Jonathan Evans from Mass Design Group. “We're heartened by what this model of housing can do to foster community life for its residents and also positively engage the broader community." 2Life Communities recently released a video to discuss the future of the JJ Carroll community.

Baker-Polito Administration Announces $13 Million in Community Compact Grants

 Baker-Polito Administration Announces $13 Million in Community Compact Grants

71 grants awarded through the new Municipal Fiber grant program

 

TAUNTON – Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito today announced $13 million in grants through the Community Compact Cabinet Municipal Fiber grant program. These grants will benefit 86 municipalities and school districts across the Commonwealth, who will use the funds for the construction or completion of their municipal fiber networks to enable more efficient management of IT infrastructure and create opportunities to gain economies of scale by aggregating internet bandwidth purchases and associated security infrastructure.
 
“The delivery of government services, from public safety response to data security, is increasingly reliant upon strong and cohesive internet infrastructure,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “This new Community Compact Cabinet program is the latest example of our Administration’s commitment to partnering with cities and towns to better serve residents, and we are proud to support their efforts to strengthen their municipal networks.”

“Given the rapidly changing landscape of information technology and the infrastructure required to support it, these inaugural municipal fiber grants will make a significant impact on local communities and governments in better serving their residents,” said Lt. Governor Polito, Chair of the Community Compact Cabinet. “As the Community Compact Cabinet Chair, I look forward to our continued partnership with all 351 of the Commonwealth’s cities and towns, and I want to congratulate the award winners and thank all those involved for their continued commitment to their communities.”

The Municipal Fiber grant program was established by the Baker-Polito Administration in the Fiscal Year 2022 (FY22) Capital Investment Plan. In addition to the $3 million allocated to the program in the capital plan, the administration dedicated $10 million from surplus FY22 capital reserves to help meet the significant demand for the new competitive grants. Grant recipients are required to contribute a 5 percent local match. 
 
“The grants announced today will help municipalities undertake IT infrastructure initiatives that will enable improvements in the functioning of local government and bring cost-savings in the long-term,” said Administration and Finance Secretary Michael Heffernan. “We are pleased to be able to distribute funding that will help more than 80 cities, towns, and school districts with these important upgrades that may be otherwise unaffordable.”

“Through the Community Compact IT grants, we have seen the value that these types of competitive programs can add to local government,” said Secretary of Technology Services and Security Curt Wood. “I fully expect that this new Community Compact Municipal Fiber grant program will yield similar results with municipalities taking an enterprise approach to network monitoring and cybersecurity.”
 
Taunton, where today’s announcement was held, will receive $190,000 to extend the city’s existing fiber network, which will increase the security and resiliency of the Taunton water distribution network to both cyber and environmental threats. Other awards include:

• $459,672 to complete a set of 3 crucial connections between Rockport, Gloucester, and Essex, which would allow for regionalization of shared services, backup of public safety functions, and cost reductions in numerous redundancies that currently exist across the region
• $300,000 to complete the last segments of a high-speed fiber network that would connect the Essex County towns of Danvers, Essex, Hamilton, Wenham, Middleton, Topsfield, Manchester-By-The-Sea, and that would connect them to the North Shore Regional 911 Center in Middleton;
• $295,925 for Amherst to extend its existing municipal fiber network to provide fast, reliable, and secure network connectivity for the towns of Amherst’s and Pelham’s municipal facilities and other assets;
• $250,000 for Acushnet to establish a fiber optic network throughout the town, which will drastically improve all aspects of operational service, internally and externally to the public
• $205,089 for Pittsfield to complete the buildout of its municipal operations network by installing fiber optics cabling at various municipal and school facilities;
• $200,000 for Sutton to complete its fiber network resulting in crucial connectivity between several dispersed municipal facilities as well as public safety radio sites; $231,969 for Mashpee to expand its fiber network so that multiple municipal facilities are added

For a full list of awardees and projects, click here.

About the Community Compact Cabinet

Formed in January 2015, the Community Compact Cabinet is chaired by Lt. Governor Polito and is composed of the Secretaries of Housing and Economic Development, Education, Transportation, Energy and Environmental Affairs, and Technology Services and Security, along with the Senior Deputy Commissioner of Local Services and the Assistant Secretary of Operational Services. The Community Compact Cabinet elevates the Administration’s partnerships with cities and towns and allows the Governor’s Office to work more closely with leaders from all municipalities. The Cabinet champions municipal interests across all executive secretariats and agencies, and develops, in consultation with cities and towns, mutual standards and best practices for both the state and municipalities. The creation of Community Compacts creates clear standards, expectations, and accountability for both partners.  

波士頓市將在 3社區各封街一日辦活動

MAYOR WU ANNOUNCES EVENTS TO HIGHLIGHT VISION FOR CAR-FREE STREETS

BOSTON - Thursday, June 2, 2022 - Today, Mayor Michelle Wu announced three new Open Streets events, welcoming neighbors into car-free streets for community, joy, and play. These half-day long events will stretch out over one to two miles of road, leaving ample space for programming, including music, games, face-painting, business and community group tabling, fitness classes, bicycle repairs and more. The City is contracting with Shana Bryant Consulting, a Black- and woman-owned small business, to carry out Boston’s Open Streets program. Mayor Wu today also announced Copley Connect, a pilot initiative that will study the future use of Dartmouth Street between Boylston Street and St. James Avenue for ten days in June. From Tuesday, June 7 to Friday, June 17, the block between Copley Square Park and the Boston Public Library will be closed to motor vehicle traffic and open to pedestrians. Open Streets The Open Streets events will take place in Jamaica Plain, Roxbury and Dorchester, and will last from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The routes are as follows: Sunday July 10: Centre Street - Lamartine to Soldier’s Monument (Centre/South) 1.4 miles Saturday August 6: Grove Hall (Warren/Blue Hill) - Dudley St. to Warren Ave. 1.2 miles Saturday September 24: Dorchester Ave. - Freeport St. to Gallivan Blvd. 2.0 miles “City streets and roadways represent a huge portion of public land, and we’re eager to host these events opening up several major streets to community for summer fun,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “These events will showcase our neighborhoods and help reshape what’s possible as we fuel our city’s social and economic recovery.” “These open streets events are an exciting opportunity to welcome people back to our neighborhoods and support our small businesses,” said Segun Idowu, Chief of Economic Opportunity and Inclusion. “We are fortunate to be able to work with Shana Bryant Consulting, a Black woman-owned business, to carry out these events as it is a reflection of Mayor Wu’s commitment to fostering an inclusive economy and the equitable awarding of city contracts.” “Boston’s streets belong to everyone,” said Jascha Franklin-Hodge, Chief of Streets. “Opening our streets for play, active recreation and local shopping will reimagine these public spaces for a day, creating a unique, vibrant experience for residents across our neighborhoods.”  "In order for our public infrastructure to be welcoming and accessible for all, we need opportunities for joy and creativity," said Kara Elliott-Ortega, Chief of Arts and Culture. "Bringing safe, outdoor community events that integrate community-building, fun, and art into public spaces will allow us to come together and make the entire city more vibrant." “As a community member and resident of Boston, I’m excited that my business, Shana Bryant Consulting, has been selected to work in partnership with the City of Boston and Mayor Wu to bring Open Streets Boston to life,” said Shana Bryant. “My team, which has over 3 decades of experience planning events, along with working with and in the community, is excited to connect and partner with local organizations, businesses, and residents to make these events in Jamaica Plain, Roxbury, and Dorchester, fun, engaging, multicultural and cross-generational.”  Programming will include activities unique to each neighborhood, offering a taste of culture through a variety of food trucks, big games, photo installations, exclusive performances and activations. Examples include a block party in collaboration with SEED in JP, a roller rink in Roxbury, and boxing on Dorchester Ave.  Copley Connect Copley Connect will offer food trucks, programming from the Boston Public Library, performances, as well as various activities for youth and families. Opening Dartmouth Street to pedestrians will unify and complement planned initiatives and investments into Copley Square Park and the Public Library’s Plaza. The Boston Planning & Development Agency (BPDA) committed $200,000 to public realm and wayfinding planning in Copley Square. "The BPDA is proud to support Copley Connect, where we will learn key information to create a more pedestrian-friendly Copley Square," said Arthur Jemison, Chief of Planning. "We are excited to study the impacts of connecting and expanding the public realm around two of our most cherished historic public assets, the Boston Public Library and Copley Square Park.” In addition to this pilot program, the Boston Parks and Recreation Department is in the process of making improvements to Copley Square Park, which borders Dartmouth Street, protecting and enhancing existing trees, strengthening the connection between the Square and the Library, improving the existing fountain, providing lush green space for enjoyment and habitat, and creating new opportunities for seating and gathering, as a way to reinvigorate the area as a community gathering space. “Parks project managers are looking forward to hosting a table with members of the design team to share plans for improvements to Copley Square and answer questions that the public may have regarding the design,” said Ryan Woods, Commissioner of the Boston Parks and Recreation Department. “Together with stakeholder agencies, neighbors, and park users, the plan will center the needs of present and future generations while preserving the Square’s place as an iconic Boston landmark.” “I’m looking forward to learning from the traffic data that will accompany this experiment, and welcoming constituents, Bostonians, and tourists alike to this temporary additional pedestrian space in Copley Square,” said Kenzie Bok, District 8 City Councilor. There are a number of factors the City and BPDA will examine during the pilot initiative including the impact on the surrounding street network and the use of the open street space. This data will be tracked and analyzed over the course of the pilot to better inform future planning. During these ten days, staff will be on hand to engage with the public about the pilot and how they think this space should be used moving forward. In addition to the community engagement throughout the duration of the pilot, the BPDA has scheduled a “Chat With a Planner” event in which community members can talk with neighborhood planners about the initiative.  This pilot initiative presents the opportunity to expand and unify the public realm in Copley Square, and ultimately better connect it to nearby open spaces and transit stations. To learn more visit: boston.gov/copley-connect Additionally, the Mayor announced that Open Newbury will be expanded this summer, with dates to be released shortly. In addition to Open Streets and Open Newbury, the Mayor affirmed her commitment to summer programming across downtown and Boston, kicked off by the Boston Blooms Block Party on April 13, welcoming people back to downtown. The City of Boston will continue to build on downtown and neighborhood-level programming, particularly focused on repurposing city streets for joy, play and active recreation

吳弭市長指派 QUINCEY J. ROBERTS SR 為首任同性戀進步辦公室主任

MAYOR MICHELLE WU APPOINTS QUINCEY J. ROBERTS SR. AS INAUGURAL EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR FOR MAYOR’S OFFICE OF LGBTQ+ ADVANCEMENT

BOSTON - Wednesday, June 1, 2022 - Mayor Michelle Wu today announced that Quincey J. Roberts Sr. will serve as the inaugural Executive Director for the Mayor’s Office of LGBTQ+ Advancement. In this role, Roberts will lead the Office of LGBTQ+ Advancement, which works to empower, protect and advance the rights, dignity, and advancement of LGBTQ+ residents. He is charged with ensuring City Hall connects with and serves the needs of the LGBTQ+ community across all neighborhoods. The office will reside in the Equity and Inclusion Cabinet led by Chief Mariangely Solis Cervera. This announcement was made today at the City of Boston’s Pride Kick-Off event. "I’m thrilled for Quincey’s leadership to ensure city services are connecting with and serving our LGBTQ+ residents across all of our neighborhoods," said Mayor Michelle Wu. "Quincey’s passion for advocacy, equity, and building community will help Boston advance and protect the rights of LGBTQ+ Bostonians.” “I've had the opportunity to work with Quincey and I have witnessed his love and respect for our LGBTQ+ community,” said Mariangely Solis Cervera, Chief of Equity and Inclusion. “This is a historic moment for us, he understands the beautiful complexities of our intersectional identities and knows that we have a lot of work to do to build a City for everyone.”   As the former LGBTQ+ community liaison in the Office of Neighborhood Services (ONS), Roberts worked to encourage, facilitate, and maximize the community’s input and participation in local government and address their needs by connecting them with city services. Roberts also served as the Education and Outreach Manager for the Boston Human Rights Commission. “I am honored to lead the newly formed Mayor’s Office of LGBTQ+ Advancement,” said Quincey J. Roberts, Sr. “Mayor Wu and her Administration’s work has been bold, purposeful and historic and I am excited to be a part of that. We have been waiting for decades for a space to call our own in city government and I look forward to advancing this critical work!” Serving the LGBTQ+ community has always been the center of Roberts’ work. In 2009, Roberts and his partner Corey Yarbrough co-founded the Hispanic Black Gay Coalition (HBGC) , which worked to inspire and empower Hispanic, Latinx, and Black LGBTQ+ through activism, education, outreach, and counseling. Roberts led HBGC in executing its leadership development programs, support groups, and an annual Youth Empowerment Conference, the largest gathering of LGBTQ+ youth of color in New England.   Roberts also worked with the Union United Methodist Church and Justice Resource Institute to establish The Youth Lounge, a youth drop-in space that offered after school programs and activities to LGBTQ+ youth of color under the age of 21. Roberts’ work with the Union United Methodist Church earned him a seat on the Board of Trustees in 2013. This made him the youngest and first openly gay trustee of the congregation. In his spare time, Roberts enjoys traveling, Art Collecting, Documentaries, game nights and brunch on Sundays. He currently lives in Dorchester with his husband Corey Yarbrough of five years. The two have a growing family, co-parenting a beautiful son Quincey Roberts Jr. with long time friend Victoria Mills. Mayor Wu recently announced the creation of the Mayor’s Office for LGBTQ+ Advancement. This office will be responsible for developing policy, community oriented programming, and providing resources for the city’s multiracial, multigenerational, multicultural and multilingual LGBTQ+ community. Throughout June, the City of Boston and Office of LGBTQ+ Advancement will be celebrating National LGBTQ+ Pride month by hosting, supporting, and amplifying events that serve the local Queer community. For more information regarding the Office of LGBTQ+ Advancement and Pride month events, please visit boston.gov/lgbtq.

MAYOR WU TOURS BEACON YARDS SITE & REAFFIRMS VISION FOR FUTURE DEVELOPMENT IN ALLSTON

MAYOR WU TOURS BEACON YARDS SITE & REAFFIRMS VISION FOR FUTURE DEVELOPMENT IN ALLSTON  The City & MassDOT have jointly applied for federal funding that would go toward reimagining I-90, presenting an opportunity to build a public transit-oriented, greener Allston

BOSTON - Wednesday, June 1, 2022 - Building on her commitment to accelerate the construction of West Station and encourage development of all methods of transportation through the Allston Multimodal Project, Mayor Michelle Wu toured the former Beacon Park Rail Yard joined by MassDOT, City officials, Harvard University leaders, and Allston-Brighton community partners. The Allston Multimodal Project would straighten the structurally deficient viaduct that currently carries I-90 adjacent to the Charles River, reconnect the neighborhood which has been separated by a highway and railyards for decades, open up 70+ acres of land for development, add public transit service to better connect Allston to neighboring communities, and upgrade pedestrian and cyclist infrastructure.   Last week, the Mayor co-signed a joint grant application with Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) for more than $1 billion toward the nearly $2 billion Allston Multimodal Project, pledging to partner with the State to make improvements along Allston’s riverfront. The application seeks to obtain federal funding through the National Infrastructure Project Assistance program.  “For too long, a highway has cut off Allston’s residents from access to the Charles River, and today’s tour showed what is possible when we reimagine how this space can work for our residents,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “The federal funding would improve safety on I-90, while also moving away from designing a City solely for cars. By prioritizing access to the riverfront, public transit routes, and added space for affordable housing we can ensure we’re making the right decisions for future generations of Boston residents and visitors. I look forward to working with the State and Harvard to make this vision a reality.” “As we look to transition more trips to transit, biking, and walking, we are pleased to have partnered with MassDOT on this grant application,” said Jascha Franklin-Hodge, Chief of Streets. “This project would reconnect the Allston community, construct a major new multimodal transit hub, create miles of walkable, transit-oriented neighborhood streets, and make regionally important investments in our bike network.”  As part of the joint grant application, MassDOT has agreed to incorporate several project elements critical to the City of Boston, including: Renewed commitment to an all at-grade design for the “throat” area along the Charles River West Station, a new Commuter Rail stop, will be built as a regional multimodal transit hub aligned with a vision for enhanced bus and rail service Support for decking over rail and highway in the area surrounding West Station  New pedestrian / bicycle crossing from Boston to the Charles River at Agganis Way Multi-use path and linear greenspace along the southern edge of the project site connecting from Franklin Street to the Charles River An expanded Paul Dudley White Path and green space along the Charles River to provide space and separation for pedestrians and cyclists A Complete Streets design approach for local streets constructed as part of the project "The I-90 Allston Multimodal Project provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to heal and rehabilitate the scar of highway infrastructure that divided the vibrant working-class community of Allston in 1964, restricted resident access to the river and shut down several passenger rail stations in both Allston and Brighton," said Councilor Liz Breadon. "This project of both local and regional significance will not only improve multimodal connections to meet the needs of public transit riders, cyclists, and pedestrians while stewarding the City's goals toward a modal shift away from automobile dependence, but will also unlock land available for the future development of an affordable, equitable, inclusive, and sustainable community." The site tour and funding application represent important steps in what will be a years-long planning and development process. The project is currently engaged in the federal environmental permitting process. MassDOT expects this work to continue into Fall 2022. As the infrastructure project moves forward, the City of Boston will lead a substantial public process to shape any development by Harvard University and others. Future growth in Allston must bring significant benefits to the community, including affordable housing, open space, and opportunity for inclusive economic development. All private development on land or air rights parcels will be subject to the City of Boston’s development review process. “Together with state, city, and community partners, Harvard University shares a vision for the Allston Multimodal Project that will advance mobility, connectivity, and regional economic growth while also addressing civic and community needs across Allston-Brighton, making it an outstanding candidate for federal grant funding,” said Katie Lapp, Executive Vice President, Harvard University. “We look forward to continuing our collaboration with partners to support a Project that will transform obsolete transportation infrastructure on a brownfield site into an inclusive and vibrant mixed-use neighborhood anchored by a truly multimodal West Station.” “Infrastructure has divided Allston in half and divided us from the Charles River for decades. This project is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reknit the neighborhood together, restore the riverfront, and provide better connectivity for all modes of travel,” said Jessica Robertson, Lower Allston resident & member of the Allston I-90 Task Force. “We're eager to see this project move forward, and improve the experience of everyone from those traveling on the interstate highway system to those simply trying to cross the street.” “These new developments mark a significant step forward with advancing the I-90 Allston Multimodal Project. Massachusetts and its capital city are well positioned in competing for over one billion in federal funding,” said Rick Dimino, President and CEO of A Better City. “This transformative infrastructure investment will improve mobility, regional and local transit service, and will restitch the urban fabric of the Allston community to the Charles River. It’s also clear that this project will strengthen the state’s and region’s economy and Boston’s national and global economic competitiveness. We are pleased to be part of a broad coalition in support of this vision and thank the Mayor and her administration for the work to make it a reality.”

木匠工會支持 Maura Healey 競選麻州州長

 Carpenters Union Endorses Maura Healey for Governor

麻州總檢察長奚莉 (Maura Healey) ，刻正競選麻州州長。檔案照片，周菊子攝)

            (Boston Orange) 北大西洋各州地區木匠協會 (NASRCC)今 (1) 日宣佈支持奚莉 (Maura Healey) 競選麻州州長。奚莉競選陣營表示，這是第17個支持她的勞工團體。

            木匠協會在刻正競選麻州州長的麻州總檢察長奚莉今日到該會位於多徹斯特的總部拜會後，做出前述宣佈。

           NASRCC這木匠協會代表麻州、紐約州、康州、羅德島州、新罕布夏州、緬因州、佛蒙特州等的2萬8千名木匠，打樁工，店舖及磨坊工，鋪地板工。

     該會執行秘書兼財務長Joe Byrne表示，奚莉了解他們這個行業，他們的議題，以及在麻州內以雙手打工的男人與女人。她擁護工人權益，支持平等包容，她也不怕和有權勢的人對抗，以保護麻州居民。

BOSTON – The North Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters today endorsed Maura Healey for Governor, marking her 17th labor endorsement of the campaign. The announcement came during Healey’s visit to the Carpenters’ headquarters and apprentice center in Dorchester on Wednesday. 

The NASRCC represents more than 28,000 carpenters, pile drivers, shop and millmen, and floorcoverers working in Massachusetts, New York, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New Hampshire, Maine and Vermont.

"Maura Healey understands our industry, our issues and the men and women of the Commonwealth who work with their hands,” said Joe Byrne, Executive Secretary-Treasurer of the NASRCC. “She's been a champion for workers' rights and for equity and inclusion. Maura Healey is also a fighter who has not been afraid to take on powerful people to protect residents of Massachusetts. As Governor, Maura Healey will use the tools already available to protect workers and help us create a construction industry that we can be proud of: one that supports economic development and jobs for healthy, happy middle-class families."

“The Carpenters build our homes, our schools, our businesses, as well as strong career pathways and a fair economy for our families,” said Maura Healey. “I’m honored to receive their endorsement, and I look forward to continuing to partner with them to combat wage theft and worker misclassification, advocate for fair wages and enhanced workplace safety, and expand job training opportunities.”

Governor Baker Nominates Dr. Maryanne Galvin and Representative James Kelcourse as Members of the Parole Board

 Governor Baker Nominates Dr. Maryanne Galvin and Representative James Kelcourse as Members of the Parole Board

 

BOSTON – Today, Governor Charlie Baker nominated Dr. Maryanne Galvin and Representative James M. Kelcourse as members of the Parole Board.

 

“As a forensic psychologist and a defense attorney, Dr. Maryanne Galvin and Representative James Kelcourse each bring valuable experiences to the Parole Board that will help the Board better serve those who appear before it,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “I am pleased to submit their nominations to the Governor’s Council for their advice and consent.”

 

“Dr. Galvin and Representative Kelcourse will bring diverse experiences to the Parole Board, improving its ability to effectively carry out the Board’s important mission,” said Lt. Governor Karyn Polito.

 

The Massachusetts Parole Board resides within the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security and is authorized to grant paroles and supervise parolees. The seven members of the Parole Board are appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Governor’s Council. Board members serve on a full-time basis. The Governor designates one member of the Board as the Chairman, who acts as the executive and administrative head of the Board.

 

Learn more about the Parole Board.

 

About Dr. Maryanne Galvin

 

Dr. Maryanne Galvin is a licensed and board-certified psychologist who has conducted evaluations and consultations for the Commonwealth Trial Courts for several decades. Dr. Galvin currently serves as a designated forensic psychologist for Forensic Health Services, a behavioral health agency. In this capacity, she conducts evaluations and consultations of competence to stand trial, criminal responsibility, violence risk assessments, substance dependence and aid-in-sentencing evaluations under M.G.L. Ch. 123 for courts in southeastern Massachusetts. From 1998 until 2021, she served as a designated forensic psychologist for the Massachusetts Department of Mental Health (DMH), where she conducted similar evaluations for Metro-Boston area courts. Prior to her service at DMH, she conducted evaluations for adolescents for the Department of Youth Services and Center for Health and Development, Inc. She has also served as a forensic psychologist and consultant for the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Department, where she oversaw clinical management of detainees with behavioral health challenges, supporting crisis intervention and suicide screening.

 

Prior to her work as a psychologist supporting the Commonwealth’s criminal justice system, Dr. Galvin practiced as a psychologist for several Boston-area medical institutions including McLean Hospital in Belmont, Tufts Medical Center and the former Boston City Hospital. Dr. Galvin has also maintained a private practice as a clinical psychologist since 1981. Dr. Galvin received her Bachelor of Science in Child Psychology from Wheelock College in Boston in 1976. She received her Doctorate in Education in Counseling Psychology in 1980 from the University of Massachusetts Amherst in 1980 and a Master’s in Fine Arts in Writing, Literature and Publishing from Emerson College in 1994. Dr. Galvin lives in Plymouth with her family.

 

About Representative James M. Kelcourse

 

Representative James M. Kelcourse has represented the 1^st Essex District in the Massachusetts House of Representatives since 2015. In the House, he serves as the ranking member on the Committee on Education and serves on the Committees on Ways & Means; Natural Resources & Agriculture; and Human Resources & Employment Engagement. In the Legislature, Representative Kelcourse has also been active in addressing various public safety issues. He was elected to represent the communities of Newburyport, Amesbury and Salisbury in 2014 after previously serving as a local official, first as a member of the Amesbury Planning Board and later as an Amesbury City Councilor at-large.

 

Representative Kelcourse is a practicing defense attorney who represents clients in a variety of criminal matters through his practice in Newburyport. He has defended clients in criminal cases at jury trials in the District Court. He has also represented clients at probation violation hearings. As an attorney, Kelcourse has argued numerous civil and criminal motions at the Superior and District Court levels in Massachusetts and has also represented clients in Civil and Small Claims sessions. As an attorney, Kelcourse is also experienced in all aspects of landlord and tenant law, having appeared in both District and Housing Courts on behalf of clients. Kelcourse received his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Villanova University in 1997, later receiving a Master’s in Business Administration from Villanova. He received his Juris Doctorate from the Massachusetts School of Law in 2007 and is admitted to the bar for Massachusetts courts and for the United States District Court of Massachusetts. Representative Kelcourse lives in Amesbury with his family.