麻州農商旅遊展 9月15至10月1日一連17天

Massachusetts Building at the Big E Fair Officially Open

Over 30 businesses and organizations set to represent and promote

Massachusetts’ Agriculture, Commerce, and Tourism Industries

 

WEST SPRINGFIELD — The Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) today announced the annual opening of the Massachusetts State Exposition Building during the 2023 Eastern States Exposition, better known as “The Big E.” This year, the 2023 Big E will run from Friday, September 15, 2023, to Sunday, October 1, 2023.

 

The Massachusetts State Exposition Building opened in 1919 and is the oldest of the six original statehouse replicas representing each New England state located along the Avenue of States. The mission of the Massachusetts State Exposition Building is to showcase Massachusetts agriculture, culture, commerce, and tourism through informational, educational, promotional, and retail exhibits.

 

"From clam chowder to maple syrup, the Big E is a tremendous opportunity for visitors to learn about Massachusetts’ diverse businesses and products,” said MDAR Commissioner Ashley Randle. “We’re excited to welcome everyone back to see what Massachusetts has to offer as the Healey-Driscoll Administration works to better position the state as an innovative leader in developing a local economy around agriculture.”

 

Attendees of this year’s fair will be able to visit over 30 vendors inside and around the building including local artisanal small business owners, agricultural commodity groups, commercial vendors, and state agencies. Visitors can also expect to find a wide variety of products, including clam chowder, apples, Finnish pancakes, honey, maple syrup, candles, soaps, chocolates, jewelry, photography, dips, seafood, smoothies, sandwiches, and more.

 

Special days for the Massachusetts Building include Military Day on Friday, September 15^th, Massachusetts Day on Thursday, September 21^st and Harvest New England Day on Friday, September 29^th. Big E gates open at 8AM daily and the Avenue of States hours are 10AM to 9PM daily. Directions, parking, and ticket details are available online.

 

Below is a list of this year’s Massachusetts State Exposition Building vendors and exhibitors for the 17-day fair:

 

Amy's All Natural Soaps *- Offers 35 unique varieties of goat milk soaps, unscented/natural shea butter, moisturizing lip lotion and gift baskets. Soaps are made locally using a family recipe which contains no artificial colorants, scents or synthetic materials. 

Andrew Gordon Jewelry * - Provides a passion for the craft of handmaking one-of-a-kind sterling silver jewelry, including rings, bracelets, earrings and charms. 

Bees Boards *- Locally sourced, handcrafted cribbage boards, cutting boards, clocks, charcuterie boards, barware, cheese slices signs, kitchen, home goods and custom orders. 

 

Common Ground Ciderworks* - Small batch, hand crafted, hard cider, wine and beer made in North Brookfield.

 

Finn Cakes - What is a Finnish Pancake?  It is a sweet tasting egg pancake topped with Massachusetts Maple Syrup. It contains the same custardy taste from 50 years ago and it’s a one of a kind on the fairgrounds!

 

Gibby's Gourmet Marshmallows - Locally sourced marshmallow products that are loaded with flavor and come in a variety of shapes and styles. All come in YUMMMY!!!

 

Hampden County Beekeepers Association - Non-profit organization that provides a forum to educate the public and promote local honey products including liquid, creamed, comb, chunk and straws. Bee products including pollen granules, liquid propolis, moisturizer, lip balm, sip straws, and candy are available to purchase.

I Love Boston Sports * - Curates unique themed art-based products based on the rich history and athletic achievements of the New England sports teams.  These one-of-a-kind products are imprinted on t-shirts, sweatshirts, wall prints and novelty items. 

 

Impeckable - If you love to feed the birds, these one-of-a-kind bird feeders and houses will make a unique gift. Impeckable was created with the dual intention of being able to make you smile and give nature a helping hand.

 

Joey's Deli & Market - The Biggest Little Deli - The deli cases are always changing with a variety of sweet treats, create your own dinners, sides, cold salads and more.

Koffee Kup Bakery * - Chicopee based bakery that offers top quality made-from-scratch baked goods including everything from cakes, breads, sweets and more. 

Macken's Sliders * - Family owned and operated mobile catering company that specializes in BBQ Cowboy, Garlic Bomb, Bacon Waffle, and Vegetarian Caprese Sliders.

Main Street Deli * - Enjoy delicious "Comfort Foods" such as homemade hot entrees like the Pilgrim Sandwich and the Thanksgiving Bowl, made-to-order sandwiches, Mac & Cheese, salads and delicious desserts. 

Massachusetts Dept. of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) - The Department’s mission is to cultivate a robust and equitable agricultural economy, promote a safe and resilient food system, and preserve a healthy environment for Massachusetts farmers, animals, and consumers.. Visit their website to find local farms, farmers markets and more!

Massachusetts Dept. of Conservation & Recreation (DCR) - Manages state parks and oversees more than 450,000 acres throughout Massachusetts. It protects, promotes, and enhances the state’s natural, cultural, and recreational resources. 

Massachusetts Department of Fire Safety (DFS) - Helps keep communities safe by providing firefighter training, public education, fire prevention, code enforcement, licensing, fire investigation, hazardous material response, and emergency response. 

Massachusetts Farmers Markets - Partners with farmers, consumers, and communities to improve the health of individuals, strengthen community vitality, and enhance local farm viability through farmers markets. Visits their website to find a farmers’ market near you!

Massachusetts Maple Producers Association – MMPA works with more than 250 producers across the Commonwealth to help them make delicious, all-natural, pure maple products. Visit your nearest sugarhouse, or order online!

 

Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism (MOTT) - MOTT promotes the Commonwealth as a four-season travel destination. MOTT highlights Massachusetts’ culture, history, cuisine and outdoor resources and works closely with the 16 tourism offices across the state. To plan your Massachusetts getaway, visit www.visitma.com.

Massachusetts Secretary of State – The Secretary of State’s Office is the chief record-keeping, public information, securities regulator, and elections officer of the Commonwealth. Their office is responsible for the maintenance of public records, administration of elections, storage of historical data, preservation of historical sites, registration of corporations, and the filing and distribution of regulations and public documents.

Massachusetts State Grange - Are you interested in agriculture and leadership?  If so, the Massachusetts State Grange creates opportunities for leadership and community improvement through its commitment to expand agricultural education in order to raise the quality of life for all. Check out their website for a Grange location near you. 

Massachusetts State Lottery * - Feel like a winner? Try your luck at the Massachusetts State Lottery!  Each year, the Massachusetts State Lottery returns net profits to the Commonwealth for distribution of essential unrestricted local aid to all 351 cities and towns. 

Massachusetts State Treasury - Paid out over $225 Million over the last 2 years and has over $3 Billion dollars in unclaimed property.

Maureen's Sweet Shoppe * - True candy boutique that offers the finest handmade chocolates which are made in small batches to assure freshness. Caramel is made on site to ensure only the finest ingredients in their products. In addition to fine chocolates, they offer over 50 bulk candy choices including the world's best gummies.

 

Moeshmallows - Creating treats that bring the humble marshmallow into the limelight and let it be the star of the show. Nostalgic in nature, Moeshmallows will bring out the kid in you, sure to make you smile.

My Main Squeeze * - Get your squeeze on by visiting My Main Squeeze juice bar. A place where cold-pressed juice can help to supplement a healthy lifestyle and no matter what you purchase (even sweet treats!) you will know it's good for you (no processed or refined ingredients and no additives). Visit their website for the best smoothies, protein balls, acai bowls, and superfood mix you will ever have. 

 

Nantucket Wild Fish - From their Boats to Smoke to Table- try fish in a new way- smoked in either a tuna wrap, whole in a croissant or in a stuffed quahog. 

New England Apple Association - With more than 120 varieties grown in New England, you are sure to find a perfect apple for any occasion. Visit website to find an orchard near you!

Patrick Zephyr Nature Photography * - See all the beauty the world has to offer in a picture. Patrick Zephry is a nationally known artist and instructor whose works are available through print, notecards, calendars, wooden puzzles, coaster and more. Visit the Patrick Zephyr Nature Photography website to see his amazing works. 

Rustic Wood Flags by Wedge* - Hand crafted customized wooden agricultural, military, and patriotic flags, themed cutting boards, challenge coin holders and so much more!

S & P Foodies Hub*- Using Massachusetts products, Thai fries are fresh cut potatoes with a dry rub seasoning topped with cheese, spicy honey aioli and a habanero lemon basil aioli then covered with such toppings as bacon bits, gluten free chicken, and cheese. Yum!!

 

Simply Dip-Licious * - From bread to dips to desserts, Simply Dip-Licious is committed to offering you the finest and freshest ingredients that you will taste in every bite. They offer a large variety of gourmet dips and olive oil blends for all your dipping occasions.  

 

Sniffs of Adventure​​​​​​​ - Our products tell a story of adventures which are attributed through their smells. Our candles are whimsical and should transport you to a time and place that brings back a nostalgic memory. Our candles are 100% soy infused with natural fragrance oils, which are made in our Newbury Street and Provincetown store locations. 

Springfield Thunderbirds * - Calling all hockey fans. The Springfield Thunderbirds are a minor league professional ice hockey team in the American Hockey League that began playing during the 2016–17 season. Show your Springfield pride by visiting their website to see their amazing apparel or to purchase game tickets. 

Valley Malt * - Have you ever wondered where malt comes from? Valley Malt is bringing the Malthouse back by offering artisanal malts from locally grown grains for craft and home brewers. Check out their website for growing and brewing partners.

Worcester Red Sox * - The Worcester Red Sox (nicknamed the Woo Sox) is a professional minor league Triple-A Affiliate baseball team for the Boston Red Sox. The Woo Sox began playing at Polar Park in Worcester in April 2021.

 

 

* Denotes a businesses that offers products or is open year-round.

BPDA approves new affordable housing in East Boston and Mattapan Redevelopment of real estate properties moves forward

BOSTON - September 14, 2023 - The Boston Planning & Development Agency (BPDA) Board of Directors Thursday approved two new development projects representing approximately 111,230 square feet (SF). The new projects will create 82 residential units, 48 of which, or 56 percent of which, will be designated income-restricted, and will support approximately 96 construction jobs and 9 permanent jobs. The Board also approved the Dorchester Bay City Planned Development Area (PDA) Master Plan. These projects will make Boston a more resilient, affordable, and equitable city.  Real Estate BPDA awards tentative designation for the redevelopment of Parcel P-12C The BPDA Board of Directors awarded tentative designation to the Asian Community Development Corporation and The Community Builders for the redevelopment of Parcel P-12C at 290 Tremont Street in Chinatown. This site was previously tentatively designated, but after that development did not move forward due to financial constraints brought on by the pandemic, the BPDA restarted a community process in 2022 to imagine what could be developed on the site. This site was also identified as a high-priority opportunity site for community planning in the City’s 2022 land audit. Following years of community engagement, the objective for the redevelopment of the site is to create a dense, mixed-use development that prioritizes affordable housing and activates the streetscape. This development is a long-awaited opportunity to create a significant number of income-restricted units in an area that has experienced market-rate development pressures. The development team proposes 119 total income-restricted units, which will be a mix of rental and homeownership opportunities. The development would also include community or commercial space on the ground floor. Like all BPDA-owned parcels in the City of Boston, the selected development team will be required to meet the BPDA’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion evaluation criterion, and outline commitments to including Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprise (M/WBEs) in all aspects of their development process. This project has also been identified as a potential recipient of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds through the Mayor’s Office of Housing. BPDA approves release of RFP for Boston Water and Sewer Commission Parking Lots The BPDA Board of Directors approved the release of an RFP to redevelop 17 parcels which exist as five parking lots in Roxbury known as the Boston Water and Sewer Commission Lots. This site was identified as a high-priority opportunity site for community planning in the City’s 2022 land audit. The BPDA seeks to convey the property to allow mixed-use development that will fulfill the property’s potential to address the City’s most urgent needs including affordable housing, community development, and climate resilience. The RFP seeks proposals which will create opportunities for wealth generation for the residents of Roxbury. BPDA staff held five community meetings to inform the draft of the RFP to ensure that this project is community led development in action. From those engagements, and in concert with the Roxbury Strategic Master Plan and PLAN: Nubian Square, the development objectives for this RFP include: equitable and affordable housing and wealth creation, bolstering of community infrastructure such as small business development, daycares, laundromats, etc, addressing urban heat island effect, and development without displacement. Like all BPDA RFPS, the selected development team will be required to meet the BPDA’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion evaluation criterion, and outline commitments to including Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprise (M/WBEs) in all aspects of their development process. The future redevelopment at this site has also been identified as a potential recipient of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds through the Mayor’s Office of Housing. The RFP will be issued in the coming weeks. Development Projects Project at 2 Ford Street and 970 Saratoga Street moves forward to bring new housing to East Boston Live: 41 residential units, seven income-restricted units Work: Approximately 42 construction jobs, approximately eight permanent jobs, commercial retail space Connect: Close proximity to public transportation, public realm improvements Sustain: Mitigation towards heat island effect, climate resiliency measures  This project in East Boston sits on two separate parcels of land at 2 Ford Street and 970 Saratoga Street and will consist of two separate four-story, mixed use buildings. The building at 2 Ford Street will contain 27 residential units and retail space, and the building at 970 Saratoga Street will contain 14 residential units and retail space. Seven units will be income-restricted; at least one other will be considered for the City of Boston Voucher Program. The units will be a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom units. The retail space is intended to be tenanted by local residents from the East Boston community. This will be a transit-oriented development, as it is in close proximity to the MBTA Blue line, and will have space for bike parking for residents and visitors. This project is located within the boundaries of PLAN: East Boston, the BPDA’s ongoing neighborhood planning initiative. As one part of the planning process so far, BPDA staff delivered draft recommendations for all squares and corridors in May 2021. These recommendations include active ground floor uses supported by added height and density and transformational public realm improvements, which this project will deliver. During the review of this project, staff focused on ensuring the buildings are sensible to the neighborhood’s character, and securing street and sidewalk improvements that include safer and accessible crosswalks, wider sidewalks, and an expanded public realm to make space for street trees and green infrastructure. A financial contribution of $50,000 will be used toward making these pedestrian improvements, adding an art installation, and upkeeping Noyes Playground or another East Boston public park. A final portion of the contribution will go to the Boston Transportation Department to support the bikeshare program.  1471 Blue Hill Avenue project will bring new income-restricted housing to Mattapan Live: 41 housing units, 100 percent income-restricted units  Work: 1,400 square feet of community space, 54 construction jobs Connect: Bike parking, walking distance to Commuter Rail, MBTA bus services  Sustain: 48 percent on-site renewable energy, all electric design, rooftop solar This project at 1471 Blue Hill Avenue in Mattapan will convert a vacant lot into a five-story  residential building with 41 energy-efficient and income-restricted rental units. The units range from one-bedrooms to three-bedrooms. There will be bicycle parking spaces for residents and for visitors. In addition, this project will contribute a bike-share station on site. There will also be a community art and workroom on site. Approximately 43 percent of the project site will be open space, and there will also be a publicly accessible pocket park on site. The project is within the boundaries of PLAN: Mattapan, approved and adopted by the BPDA Board in May 2023, by encouraging transit-oriented development of affordable housing and by improving nearby streetscape. Nine new trees will also be added along the street. Blue Hill Avenue is an important corridor identified in PLAN: Mattapan. Corridors are envisioned for denser residential development, commercial uses, and community-centered amenities due to their rich transit resources and high degree of accessibility. This project is consistent with the PLAN’s recommendations for public realm investment and green infrastructure, as it will have a small community garden, a publicly accessible pocket park and new street trees on Blue Hill Avenue. The proposed project leverages taller heights encouraged for PLAN: Mattapan corridors to bring people closer to existing transit access, retail, and community resources. The creation of a ground floor community use supports the vision for corridors to be places of gathering and public life. .  1000 Washington Street project will convert building from office to life science  Live: Support for Friends of Peters Park, Pao Arts Center Work: Approximately 276 construction jobs, approximately 790 permanent jobs, vacant office space converted to life science uses Connect: New terrace space to gather and connect, reduced parking and vehicle trips Sustain: LEED Gold,100 percent renewable electricity & carbon offsets to achieve Zero Net Carbon, 40 percent carbon reduction, critical building infrastructure elevated Located in the South End, this project will convert the existing building at 1000 Washington Street from an office into new life science uses. The changes will primarily be interior to the building, but will also include some exterior changes as well including: new thermally efficient windows; substantial changes to the exterior envelope at the eleventh floor and expanded mechanical penthouse and rooftop mechanicals; increased energy efficiency measures; and minor changes to the loading dock. In addition, this project will contribute approximately $1,976,83 towards affordable housing and approximately $395,841 towards jobs training. The project will also contribute $20,000 in funding to the Friends of Peters Park and $20,000 in funding to the Pao Arts Center. In addition, the project will deliver another $10,000 in funding to the BPDA to be distributed to the community. In addition to these projects, the Board approved:  An update to the previously approved Allston Square project to change a portion of the project from homeownership units to rental units. An update to the previously approved Nubian Square Ascends project at 2164 Washington Street to increase the number of income restricted units from 10 to 15.

Chamber Achieves Goal of Board Gender Parity Two Years Before Deadline

 Chamber Achieves Goal of Board Gender Parity Two Years Before Deadline

Women on Chamber Board of Directors increased to 50%

 

The Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce today successfully achieved a significant goal as part of its continuing efforts to promote business community equity and inclusion.  With its vote today adding three additional women to the Chamber Board, women now represent 50% of Directors.

Not only has board gender parity been achieved, but the Chamber has reached this goal two years early.

 

The Chamber’s journey to create a diverse Board began in 2017 when we established the first ever five-year diversity goals.  After meeting those goals a year early, in 2021, the Chamber issued a call to action to the business community to commit to Board diversity with intention and action. And in 2021, the Chamber Board publicly committed to a new ambitious set of 5-year diversity goals for itself: a board that is 50% women and 37% people of color, including 17% Black, 10% Asian, and 10% Latinx by 2026.  The Chamber is well on its way to achieving its racial diversity goals by 2026 as well, with people of color holding 30% of the Board seats.  

 

The Chamber’s immediate past Board Chair, Micho F. Spring, strategized and launched the new 5- year diversity goal plan and the broader call to action to the entire regional business community.  During his term as Board Chair over the past fifteen months, current Chamber Chair and State Street CEO Ron O’Hanley has embraced and led the implementation efforts.

 

“This important milestone took diligence and a firm commitment by our Board to recruit new leaders. I hope this progress encourages our members to redouble their efforts to make Boston’s business community more inclusive, which is key to our future economic success,” said Micho F. Spring, former Board Chair, Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce.

 

“Advancing Board diversity is one of the most significant ways to champion a more representative, equitable, and inclusive economy. Building inclusive commerce demands intentionality, urgency, and action.  With this momentum, our Board will continue this important work to build a more inclusive future,” said Ronald P. O’Hanley, Chair and CEO of State Street.

 

“Our Board’s impact will be even stronger and more meaningful because of the diverse voices and life experiences that have joined us.” said James E. Rooney, President & CEO of the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce. “I am grateful to our Board of Directors for their leadership and efforts to help us meet these goals, especially the Nominating and Governance Committee Co-Chairs, Yvonne Garcia of State Street and Paul Ayoub of Nutter, who as a former chair oversaw the effort in 2017 to create the first Chamber board diversity goals.

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 Asian Americans Advancing Justice Responds to District Court Ruling Against DACA

Congress Must Get Its Act Together and Pass Permanent Protections for Immigrant Youth

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday evening, Judge Andrew Hanen of the Southern District of Texas ruled against the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program in Texas v. United States. As this court case goes through appeals, current DACA recipients are still protected—with their status and ability to work still intact—and can continue to renew their DACA. 

Asian Americans Advancing Justice, an affiliation of five independent civil rights organizations, responds with the following statement: 

“While expecting this ruling, Asian Americans Advancing Justice is appalled by the relentless attacks on DACA and the callousness shown for the lives and futures of DACA holders, immigrant youth, and families across the country.  

“For too long, hundreds of thousands of people with DACA have been forced to live with uncertainty as the program endures such attacks, while millions of other undocumented community members without access to these protections are stuck in an unending limbo. This is a direct result of Congressional inaction and failure to deliver permanent protections for our communities.  

“Of the 1.7 million undocumented Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in the United States today, over 14,000 Asian Americans and more than 150 Pacific Islander youth are currently protected by DACA. If DACA were to end, these community members—who have long called the United States home alongside millions of others—face the loss of their jobs and ability to care for their families as well as the threat of deportation and separation from their loved ones.  

“But the fight is not over, and we continue to call on our elected officials to ensure the safety and livelihoods of our communities. While our moral compass should ultimately guide our immigration policies, the significance of a permanent solution for DACA holders and undocumented people on the economy, workforce, and fabric of America must also be understood by our country’s leaders. Congress must act now before it is too late. 

“In the meantime, neither this order nor the accompanying supplemental injunction requires the Department of Homeland Security or the Department of Justice to take any immigration, deportation, or criminal action against any DACA recipient, applicant, or any other individual that would otherwise not be taken. DACA holders continue to maintain their status and can continue to renew their DACA and work authorization as this fight continues.” 

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MAYOR WU ANNOUNCES PRECAUTIONS AHEAD OF HURRICANE LEE

BOSTON - Thursday, September 14, 2023 - Mayor Michelle Wu today issued precautions ahead of Hurricane Lee reaching Boston. The storm is expected to impact the Boston area overnight Friday, September 15 through Saturday, September 16. Hurricane Lee is forecast to pass offshore of southern New England on Saturday but its impacts will extend far from the storm’s center. The latest forecast indicates up to one to four inches of rainfall, with damaging winds, and potential for flooding in low-lying areas. The area will experience a peak storm surge of one to three feet. Residents are encouraged to stay indoors throughout the storm. For more information, visit boston.gov/hurricane. Mayor Wu issued these precautions during a storm preparation press conference. She was joined by leadership from various Cabinets and departments including the Office Emergency Management; Environment, Energy, and Open Space Cabinet; Boston Emergency Medical Services; Parks and Recreation Department; Boston Police Department; Boston Fire Department; Streets Cabinet; Operations Cabinet; and the Boston Water & Sewer Commission.  “Our City departments have been preparing for every potential impact of this storm, and even as the projected path has moved further away from Boston, we are taking every step to be ready for the unexpected,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “Our top priority is to ensure the safety of everyone in our communities, so please plan ahead to stay indoors if possible on Saturday and check on your loved ones and neighbors.” Extreme and intense rain events are becoming increasingly common in the Northeast, often dropping several inches of rain in a couple of hours. The city received over 20 inches of rain in just July and August; Boston typically receives a total of 44 inches annually. The City may experience combined sewer overflows during the storm and the public can track these via the BWSC and BPHC websites. BWSC and the City are preparing for the rain by clearing debris off of catch basins so the infrastructure is unimpeded during the storm. Boston is also improving stormwater management by building green infrastructure across the city to reduce the flow of stormwater into our stormwater system. Residents can install green infrastructure at home, including rain barrels and rain gardens that decrease the amount of stormwater that must be managed by the city’s stormwater system.  BCYF centers will open for regular hours in case residents need support or shelter. The City of Boston is urging the following precautions: Put together an emergency kit, including a flashlight, batteries, first aid supplies, copies of critical information, and non-perishable food items. Make a family emergency communication plan. Turn on your TV and radio every 30 minutes to get the latest weather updates. Charge your cell phone so you will have a full battery in case you lose power. Hurricane winds can cause trees and branches to fall, so trim or remove damaged trees and limbs to keep you and your property safe. Report damaged or downed trees in the public right of way to 311. Secure loose rain gutters and downspouts and clear any clogged areas or debris to prevent water damage to your property. Avoid driving during the storm. Avoid walking or driving through flood waters. Clear street catch basins to prevent or reduce street flooding. Check on neighbors who might need assistance.  In the event of an emergency, call 911.  For non-emergency issues, call 311. General flood protection tips: Sign up for emergency notifications through AlertBoston. Know your zone! Know your evacuation zone and route and be prepared to evacuate as directed by public officials.  Similarly, find out how vulnerable your property is to flooding. If your home is in a flood-prone area, contact the National Flood Insurance program to learn what mitigation measures you can take in advance. Evaluate your insurance coverage once a year to make sure your home is fully covered. If you live in a flood-prone area, keep these materials on hand: sandbags, plywood, lumber, plastic sheeting, trash bags, shovels, work boots and gloves. In advance of a flood event: Tie down or bring in outdoor objects (outdoor furniture, trash receptacles, etc.) that could be swept away or damaged during flooding. Elevate items stored in your basement to prevent damage. If you have a sump pump, check that it is working. Remove hazardous household materials (e.g. paint, petroleum products) from basements and other areas that may flood. Do not park your vehicle near the harbor, streams or rivers, especially during threatening weather conditions. Follow any directives to turn off utilities. If you’re advised to switch off the main power source to your home, flip each breaker and THEN turn off the main breaker. You may also need to shut off the main valve for your home’s gas and water service. After a flood event: If you have evacuated, return home only when authorities have indicated it is safe. Do not go near any downed power lines especially if there is standing water nearby. Please report downed power lines to 911. Avoid walking or driving through flood waters. If your home experienced flooding, keep the power off until an electrician has inspected your system for safety. Do not touch a circuit breaker or replace a fuse with wet hands or while standing on a wet surface. Have an electrician inspect electrical appliances that have been wet and do not turn on or plug in appliances unless an electrician tells you it is safe. A trained professional may be able to recondition some devices while others will require replacement. Photograph damage to your property to assist in filing an insurance claim. Take necessary measures to prevent further damage to private property immediately following a flood event, as damage caused after a qualifying event may not be covered by insurance. To report flooding, call the Boston Water & Sewer Commission at 617-989-7900. Homeless Services: The City of Boston works closely with a network of shelter providers to ensure there is adequate shelter during weather emergencies. BPHC’s emergency shelters at 112 Southampton St. and 794 Massachusetts Ave are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Flooding tips can be found here. For more information about emergency preparedness, visit here.

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 Governor Healey Joins Legislative Leadership to Celebrate Permanent Universal Free School Meals 

Students, Faculty, Local Quincy Officials, and Community Advocates Emphasize Equity Impact of Universal Free Meals in Schools 

QUINCY—Governor Maura T. Healey and Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll hosted a press conference this morning at Snug Harbor Elementary School in Quincy, Massachusetts to celebrate her administration delivering permanent universal free school meals for K-12 students in Massachusetts. The Governor was joined at the celebration by House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano, Chair Aaron Michlewitz, bill sponsors Representatives Tackey Chan and Bruce Ayers, and Erin McAleer, the President and CEO of Project Bread, all of whom highlighted the impact the program is expected to have in addressing hunger and advancing equity for students across the state. 

“We’re making school lunch and breakfast free for all students permanently in Massachusetts,” said Governor Healey. “By delivering universal free meals, this administration is making clear that nothing is more important than ensuring our kids are fed, healthy, and ready to learn and play and grow.” 

“Universal free school meals are an investment in childhood nutrition, ensuring each of our school-aged students has access to the healthy food they need to fuel their learning,” said Lieutenant Governor Driscoll. “This policy is also removing a source of stress from families and schools, leading to one less task for parents to complete in the morning, and making sure no student feels stigmatized or ashamed for accessing the food they need.”  

The fiscal 2024 budget that Governor Healey signed on August 9, 2023 delivered $172 million in permanent state funding to provide universal free school meals for K-12 students. This funding, paired with federal reimbursement for eligible meals, means that all students who attend schools that participate in the National School Lunch and Breakfast programs are entitled to one free lunch and breakfast each school day. 

 

“During my 12 years as a teacher in the Quincy Public School System, I saw up-close just how important it is to ensure that a student’s ability to focus and ultimately succeed in the classroom is not affected by their family’s financial circumstances,” said House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano. “I’m incredibly proud that Massachusetts will be one of the first 8 states to permanently provide free school meals for all students, a vital initiative that furthers the Commonwealth’s role as a national leader in education. I want to thank Chairman Michlewitz and my colleagues in the House, as well as the Healey Administration, our partners in the Senate, and the folks at Project Bread for recognizing the critical nature of this program, and for working to make it a reality.” 

 

 “Making school meals free for students in Massachusetts will keep our young people focused on learning and provide financial relief for families who will save hundreds of dollars per student every year,” said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). “It’s a proud moment for me—and for our entire Commonwealth—to know that our students and their families will have one less thing to think about before heading out the door for class every morning.” 

“Our families, schools and communities are stronger when kids don’t have to worry about where their next meal is coming from and when school staff don’t have to worry about whether their students are hungry,” said Quincy Mayor Thomas Koch. “We are honored to welcome Governor Healey, Lieutenant Governor Driscoll and Speaker Mariano to Quincy today to celebrate this policy that will have widespread positive impacts for our city.” 

“"Making school meals free for all is a historic victory for Massachusetts families and children. It will have a lasting impact on the health and wellbeing of an entire generation. We are so grateful to Governor Healey, the legislature and the thousands of advocates across the Commonwealth who took action for our kids. It is an incredible example of the change that we can make when we all come together around a common purpose,” said Erin McAleer, President and CEO of Project Bread.  

Universal free meals began as a national program with federal funding during the pandemic, and Massachusetts continued it on a trial basis. With this year’s budget, the Healey-Driscoll Administration, along with partners in the legislature, are making the commitment permanent. From now on, free, nutritious meals will be available to all students without stigma — helping ensure that students are better prepared to learn. By being one of the few states continuing this transformative program, Massachusetts is leading the way in addressing child nutrition, child hunger, and taking a more holistic approach to student needs. 

 

“Food security is essential for learning, which is why the Healey-Driscoll administration has delivered $172 million for universal school lunch in our first budget,” said Secretary of Education Dr. Patrick Tutwiler. “It’s related to a hierarchy of need—students can’t be focus on their lessons in the classroom if they continue to be hungry. Aligned with our goals to stabilize, heal, and transform our education system, this funding will ensure that students can focus on their classes in school, instead of where their next meal is coming from.” 

 

“Thank you to Governor Healey, Lieutenant Governor Driscoll, Speaker Mariano, and Chairman Michlewitz for the leadership in enacting this very important legislation for our students and families,” said Quincy Public Schools Superintendent Kevin Mulvey. “Since the inception of this universal meals program, Quincy Public Schools has seen a 25% increase in the number of meals served. The funding will help us improve the overall quality and freshness of our meals by expanding purchasing of food items grown locally” 

The universal free school meals program will cover the cost of one lunch and breakfast including fruit, vegetables and whole grains, as per the National School Lunch and Breakfast Programs. School cafeterias might also choose to offer “a la carte” items for a fee. These items might include milk (if purchased alone) or an extra slice of pizza, and students must pay for those. Students must also pay if they want a second lunch or breakfast on the same day. Students’ first complete breakfast and lunch each day is covered.