麻州人類感染西尼羅病毒個案今年又增2宗 其中一宗在波士頓市

               (Boston Orange 綜合編譯) 麻州公共衛生廳 (DPH) 8月27日宣布，麻州今年人類感染西尼羅病毒 (WNV)的案例，又多2宗，案例總數增至4宗。

              2名受感染者均為60多歲男性，一人是在薩福克郡 (Suffolk)內，已知危險性增高區域內感染的，另一宗發生在諾福克郡 (Norfolk)。

              由於這一情況，麻州列入西尼羅病毒高危區的市鎮數目增加，包括劍橋市、Everett、麥德福市 (Medford)、牛頓市、尚莫維爾市 (Somerville)，以及米斗塞郡 (Middlesex)內的水城 (Watertown)，布魯克蘭鎮 (Brookline)、米爾頓 (Milton)，還有諾福克郡內的昆士市 (Quincy)，現在都列為西尼羅病毒的高危區。

              麻州公共衛生委員會委員長 Robbie Goldstein表示，麻州現在一直到九月，都處於西尼羅病毒活躍的高峰期，在蚊子染病的數量增多之中，人類感染的機會也大了。這種危險將持續到第一次霜降，整個麻州的人都應該小心避免蚊蟲叮咬。

今年人類感染的第一宗西尼羅病毒，發生在Hampden郡，第2宗個案發生在米斗塞郡。今年還沒有動物感染西尼羅病毒。

人類感染西尼羅病毒通常是經由蚊蟲叮咬，2023年時有6宗個案。

今年迄今，麻州有262隻蚊子檢驗到帶有西尼羅病毒。麻州流行病學家Catherine M. Brown博士表示，全美其他32州也有人類感染病例。她說，ˇ館並不是每個人都會因為西尼羅病毒而生病，但60歲以上，以及有某些慢性病的人更容易發展成嚴重病症。

麻州政府有關單位要求蓄養動物者一旦發現有動物可能感染病毒，必須撥打617-626-1795，向農業資源部門，動物健康組等報告，或撥打617-983-6800，向公共衛生廳報告。

波士頓市公共衛生局也在8月27日宣佈，有一位市民感染了西尼羅病毒，這是波士頓市今年的第一宗人類感染病例。波士頓市的第一宗蚊蟲感染西尼羅病毒，今夏7月發生在牙買加平原，Roslindale， Roxbury，以及西洛士百利。

波士頓台灣影展協會與新北市簽紀錄片合作備忘錄 每年至少選映2片

新北市長侯友宜(中)和波士頓台灣影展協會首任會長藍凡耘 (左三)，
董事會主席康麗雪(左二)簽署合作備忘錄。(圖由波士頓台灣影展協會提供)

               (Boston Orange) 波士頓台灣影展協會8月27日和臺灣新北市簽署合作備忘錄，即日起在未來三年內由新北市新聞局每年提供紀錄片優選作品，並支付播映版權及檔案製作費用，交由波士頓臺灣影展在秋季影展中選擇至少兩部片播放。

              「波士頓臺灣影展」自2019年辦理以來，除去年以外，每年都選映新北市所推薦的「新北市紀錄片獎」優選影片。波士頓台灣影展協會今年訂9月28、29兩日舉行的第六屆影展，已確定選映陳巧薇導演的《野生之路》，以及黃淑梅導演的《依諾物語》。

波士頓台灣影展協會現任會長林致中(右三)等人，今年二月
返台拜會新北市新聞局副局長(中)。 (林致中提供)

              新北市市長侯友宜和刻在臺灣的波士頓台灣影展協會首任會長藍凡耘，董事會主席康麗雪在新北市的形象影片發佈會中簽署了「新北市紀錄片獎與波士頓臺灣影展合作備忘錄」，同時贊助影展1000美元。

              侯友宜市長表示，新北市紀錄片邁入第14年，正在更積極的和海外影展合作，這次和「波士頓臺灣影展」簽約合作，希望能藉影片力量，把臺灣故事帶到大洋彼岸，和國際人士交流。

              藍凡耘表示過去數年來，影展放映的台灣紀錄片，在國際友人間引出熱烈迴響，簽署這備忘錄將給該會更多資源，把台灣紀錄片帶到更多國際友人面前。

新北市紀錄片系列活動主題網站網址為https://www.doc.ntpc.gov.tw，第六屆波士頓臺灣影展詳情網址為https://taiwanfilmfest.org/，購票可上網https://shorturl.at/aFpj8。

慈濟人醫典範溫俊強波士頓分享服務心得

慈濟波士頓聯絡處負責人長金滿(右)送紀念品感謝溫俊強分享經驗。
(周菊子攝)

               (Boston Orange 周菊子麻州報導) 「抓住任何一個可以服務機會，去做就是了」。慈濟美國醫療基金會副執行長溫俊強 (Steven Voon) 應慈濟基金會波士頓聯絡處之邀，8月24日在牛頓市會所以「慈濟醫療志業現況與展望」為題，分享他20多年來的義診經驗。

慈濟波士頓聯絡處負責人長金滿(右)和香積組金花師姊(右) 與溫俊強。
(周菊子攝)

              慈濟波士頓聯絡處負責人長金滿指出，溫俊強從2002年加入慈濟佛瑞斯諾聯絡處後，全心投入，20多年來，不但把當地的慈濟人醫組拓展到想要當志工，還得排長龍搶機會，深入偏鄉的驗眼及醫療服務團隊，也拓展到有4輛車出診的盛況。溫俊強不辭辛苦，從據點到服務地點，開車來就回至少要八小時，加上義診，一天耗上十幾小時也義無反顧。他發揮大愛的至誠，感人至深。

波士頓慈濟人醫組蕭惠菁(左)和溫俊強一起回答提問。(周菊子攝)

              溫俊強同時也是慈濟全美行動醫療（Mobile Clinic）主任。這天他很熱心地和波士頓慈濟分享他一路走來的經歷，坦言自己當年剛加入慈濟醫療組時，地方義診剛起步，他得自學醫療器材，每晚都在翻讀各種器材說明，到後來，甚至熟悉到例如牙醫需要任何設備，他都能立即找到。一路堅持，才有今日成果。

溫俊強以剪報圖片展示佛瑞斯諾服務組每2年為1萬6千名兒童驗眼的數據。
(周菊子攝)

              溫俊強推動的「看見成功眼科計畫」，不但從2015年到2019年，就有不下4萬5千人次以上兒童獲得過免費視力檢驗服務，他帶領的團隊還和21個佛瑞斯諾學區，以及「佛瑞斯諾社區健康計劃（Healthy Fresno）」合作，還緊追醫療業應用科技的進展，近年陸續採用志願者管理系統 (VMS)，以及電子醫療紀錄系統 (EHRS)，來改善醫療服務的整體品質。

              這些年來，他所帶領團隊的服務成績，地方上有目共睹，捐款贊助也源源而至，9年來他們獲得不下178萬餘元捐助。

              溫俊強在分享中，還分析了團隊成功的原因，包括要有實地去做，定義問題，心態開放的探索，找出最好的解決方案，然後改變現狀等。

溫俊強展示醫療用具的更新。(周菊子攝)

              長金滿表示，波士頓慈濟希望能夠汲取溫俊強的經驗，加強推廣大波士頓地區的醫療志業。

              波士頓慈濟8月26日還舉辦了一場大愛劇場”芳草碧連天”故事主角的「魏杏娟師姐愛灑茶會」，分享慈濟人投入4大志業的歷程。 (更新版)

會場。

第23屆羅德島州龍舟賽暨台灣日 8/31舉行 「咱的故鄉」國慶訪團助陣表演

圖片來自比賽網站。

              (Boston Orange 周菊子羅德島州報導) 第23屆羅德島州龍舟賽暨台灣日今年訂8月31日舉行，已知有21隊報名參賽，更有來自臺灣的113年國慶文化訪問團助陣表演，活動精采可期。

(波士頓僑教中心提供)

              羅德島華人協會發起，羅德島州黑石谷旅遊局承辦，每年在勞工節週末舉辦的羅德島州龍舟賽暨台灣日，歷經22年演變，儘管場地仍在黑石谷河畔，龍舟船隻卻已數度更新，表演會場更是已由石礫草坪鋪成整潔平地。

由於羅島華協共同創辦人葉超、吳子平在當地政通人和，羅德島州龍舟賽這些年來已成地方盛事，比賽開幕式總是政要雲集，包括羅德島州現任州長Dan McKee，都早從當年還是Cumberland市長之時，就已經常參加。

根據黑石谷旅遊局的活動網頁，今年有21個龍舟隊報名參賽，包括波士頓台灣龍舟隊，狼群隊 (Wolfpack)等其中有10隊來自麻州，另有10隊來自羅德島州，1隊來自紐約。

在駐波士頓台北經濟文化辦事處及僑委會的共襄盛舉中，今年的這比賽，將有國立臺灣戲曲學院和台灣特技團組成的「國慶文化訪問團」前來助陣，將由14名團員以「咱的故鄉咱的愛」為主題，表演8個節目，演繹台灣早期移民故事及台灣原生文化習俗。

龍舟賽將分龍獅虎三組，各有冠亞季軍一名，獎金金額125元到1000元之間。查詢羅德島州龍舟賽活動詳情，可上網https://www.dragonboatri.com/。

Healey-Driscoll Administration Awards $629,000 to Protect Coastal Water Quality and Restore Habitat

Healey-Driscoll Administration Awards $629,000 to Protect Coastal Water Quality and Restore Habitat  

BOSTON - The Healey-Driscoll Administration today announced $628,702 in grant funding to assess and treat stormwater pollution to coastal waters and develop comprehensive coastal habitat restoration plans. The grants, provided by the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs’ (EEA) Office of Coastal Zone Management (CZM), were awarded to the Ipswich River Watershed Association, Needham, Newton, Rehoboth, Saugus River Watershed Council, and Wildlands Trust.  

“The Coastal Habitat and Water Quality Grant program is crucial for combating pollution and strengthening climate resilience. By funding stormwater solutions and habitat restoration, we are safeguarding our coast and ensuring its health and vitality for future generations,” said EEA Secretary Rebecca Tepper. “This commitment underscores the Healey-Driscoll Administration’s drive to build a healthier, more resilient coast.”  

“This is CZM’s third year awarding these grants, and we’re excited about the transformative project our recipients are spearheading,” said CZM Director Alison Brizius. “This funding is critical for creating resilient coastlines, and we can’t wait to work with our partners to drive real, lasting change in coastal water quality and habitat protection.”  

The Coastal Habitat and Water Quality (CHWQ) Grants fund projects to assess, intercept, and treat stormwater runoff, which is a leading source of water pollution. Reducing stormwater pollution is essential for protecting coastal water quality and habitat, as well as keeping beaches open for swimming and shellfish beds open for harvest. A priority of the grant program is to support implementation of green stormwater infrastructure, which replicate natural processes to trap and filter stormwater prior to reaching local waterbodies. The CHWQ Grants also support the development of comprehensive habitat restoration plans. Habitat restoration helps to protect and maintain critical environmental resources across the greater coastal watershed.  

The following six projects have been funded through this year’s Coastal Habitat and Water Quality Grants:  

Ipswich River Watershed Association - $137,053 to develop a comprehensive habitat restoration plan to improve aquatic habitat and riverine conditions in the Ipswich River. The river, which is crucial habitat for diadromous fish species, has become degraded due to low dissolved oxygen levels, high bacteria levels, and barriers to flow. This project will assess current habitat conditions through mapping of specific habitat types and develop strategies and recommendations to improve diadromous fish habitat in the river.  

Needham - $125,425 to advance assessment and planning for stormwater management along Alder Brook, a tributary of the Charles River. The project will reduce phosphorous inputs to the brook by capturing and treating stormwater before reaching the waterbody. The Town will work in partnership with the Charles River Watershed Association to advance the project.  

Newton - $173,339 to advance permitting and engineering of green stormwater infrastructure along Cheesecake Brook. The proposed management techniques will aim to reduce phosphorous and bacteria impacts to the brook and the Charles River, which are currently impacted by these pollutants. The City will work in collaboration with the Charles River Watershed Association to complete this work.  

Rehoboth - $87,500 to quantify calculations of nutrient levels in runoff, identify locations for stormwater best management practices (BMPs), update stormwater and zoning bylaws to reduce stormwater impacts, host BMP maintenance trainings to build capacity in the municipality, and conduct outreach with residents and local farmers on stormwater BMPs. This project holistically targets water quality improvements in the Palmer River Watershed.  

Saugus River Watershed Council - $56,700 to assess stormwater runoff volume and pollutant levels from municipal properties in the Saugus River watershed. Through GIS analyses and on-site field assessments, the Council will assess existing conditions, model climate scenarios, and investigate levels of impact to the Saugus River watershed. The data collected will inform site selection and initial designs for green stormwater infrastructure to address stormwater impacts in the region.  

Wildlands Trust - $48,685 to complete a habitat restoration plan in the Plymouth, Duxbury, and Kingston (PDK) Bay Area. Focusing on the 30 miles of coastline and numerous tributaries to the bay, the project will assess existing data, management plans, and community knowledge to identify opportunities to protect coastal habitat. Formation of the PDK Bay Coalition as part of the project will bring together local leaders and experts to lead plan development, coordinate municipal efforts, and share resources.  

“I’m thrilled the Healey-Driscoll Administration is prioritizing climate resiliency efforts that not only benefits our coastlines but also address the negative toll taken on our rivers, streams and waterways from the increased instances of extreme weather and flooding our Commonwealth faces,” said Senate Majority Leader Cynthia Stone Creem (D-Newton). “Advancing the permitting and installation of the green stormwater infrastructure along Cheesecake Brook will have lasting impacts on the health and quality of our of communities’ natural habitat.”  

"The Ipswich River is a vital resource in our district, as well as an essential natural habitat for a variety of species," said Representative Kristin H. Kassner (D-Hamilton).  "This important grant will help the Ipswich River Watershed Association develop a plan to improve the health of the river for people and for wildlife. It's a win for all of us."  

The Massachusetts Office of Coastal Zone Management (CZM) is the lead policy and planning agency on coastal and ocean issues within the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs. Through planning, technical and grant assistance, and public information programs, CZM seeks to balance the impacts of human activity with the protection of coastal and marine resources. The agency’s work includes helping coastal communities address the challenges of storms, sea level rise, and other effects of climate change; working with state, regional, and federal partners to balance current and new uses of ocean waters while protecting ocean habitats and promoting sustainable economic development; and partnering with communities and other organizations to protect and restore coastal water quality and habitats

波士頓榮光會包餃子慶中秋歡迎新會員

波士頓榮光會團聚慶中秋。(周菊子攝)

            (Boston Orange 周菊子麻州報導) 波士頓榮光會8月24日在僑教中心包水餃，吃月餅，慶中秋，認識新到任的波士頓僑教中心主任高家富，歡迎新會員沈慶雲加入，喜見波士頓經文處處長廖朝宏再來同聚，三、四十名出席者還紛紛填表申請i僑卡。

波士頓榮光會理事長鄭增壽(左起)歡迎駐波士頓辦事處處長廖朝宏，
僑教中心主任高家富到會。(周菊子攝)

             波士頓榮光會理事長鄭增壽指出，這次的中秋節慶祝會，全靠會員們通力合作，辦得格外成功。活動組司徒榮新佈置會場，前任理事長袁建業的夫人江文玲精心調製葫蘆瓜肉餡，大夥兒一起包水餃，周仙梅、陳阿友、陳俊德夫婦在僑教中心後院頂著大太陽煮水餃，遠從新罕布夏州趕來參加活動的該會財政張明燦和楊麗雪，還特地帶了滷蛋，滷豬腳，滷花生各一大盤到場的彼此分工合作，吃水餃，為聚會增添了更多趣味。

              波士頓國民黨常委張韻蘭也特地帶了花生糖到場，為活動增加甜蜜感。

高家富主任(右)介紹i僑卡。(周菊子攝)

              鄭增壽也在會中特地表揚副理事長蘇麗萍，秘書長陳家驊為統籌這次中秋歡聚的策劃與協調，讓大夥兒都吃到伍仁、蛋黃蓮蓉的月餅和西瓜。

              8月15抵埠的高家富主任，在會上簡述個人經歷，介紹僑委會業務，還代表僑委會委員長徐佳青送上中秋祝福。

              這天特地撥冗出席的波士頓經文處處長廖朝宏笑言，他還記得去年世冒雨參加，波士頓榮光會員們熱情感人。

周仙海(左一)等人一起包水餃。(周菊子攝)

              會中，波士頓僑教中心的李美慧，向榮光會員們仔細講解i僑卡是以前僑胞卡的2.0版，也是電子版，辦理之後可持以享有特約商家優惠。目前i僑卡特約商在全球有4000多家，波士頓有珠媽廚房，龍鳳酒稜等20多家，在佛蒙特州都有。

江文玲(右)調製了葫蘆瓜餡來包水餃。(周菊子攝)

波士頓市徵下屆桂冠詩人

MAYOR WU ANNOUNCES CALL FOR BOSTON’S NEXT POET LAUREATE Boston’s Poet Laureate creates a unique artistic legacy through public readings, civic events, and community engagement.

BOSTON - Tuesday, August 27, 2024 - Mayor Michelle Wu and the Mayor’s Office of Arts and Culture today announced the City of Boston is seeking applications and nominations for its next Poet Laureate. Established in 2008, the Boston Poet Laureate Program has been a cornerstone of Boston’s creative sector, drawing residents into the rich and transformative world of the literary arts. Poetry has the unique power to capture our history, illuminate the present, and spark hope and change for the future. Porsha Olayiwola currently holds this role. Building on the work she has done since becoming Poet Laureate in 2019, Olayiwola will be teaching in the English Department at Emerson College and opening a bookstore, justBook-ish, in Fields Corner. “One of the most unique and special roles in our City has opened,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “The Poet Laureate is a very important role in our artistic community and beyond. I encourage all residents who have a passion for the literary arts to apply, and I look forward to seeing the ways in which the next Poet Laureate will serve the City through their passions and creativity.” Boston’s Poet Laureate serves as an ambassador for the city’s literary and creative communities, working in tandem with these partners to elevate the role of poetry in the everyday lives of Bostonians, and inspire critical reflection through written and spoken word.  “Boston’s Poet Laureate is called upon not only to encourage a love of the literary arts in the city, but to create spaces for us to connect with and nurture our creativity,” said Kara Elliott-Ortega, Chief of Arts and Culture. “They challenge us to think differently and to have the courage to express ourselves in community. I am grateful to Porsha for using her gifts to illuminate the beauty and complexity of our city and excited to see how the next poet laureate will inspire us with their unique voice.” Since its inception, the role of Poet Laureate has been held by three individuals: Sam Cornish was Boston’s inaugural Poet Laureate, followed by Danielle Legros Georges, and currently Porsha Olayiwola holds this role. Porsha will be closing out her tenure with a workshop series this fall in conjunction with the Boston Public Library.  “Serving as the poet laureate for the city of Boston has been one of the greatest dreams of my work,” said Porsha Olayiwola. “I’ve become embedded into the rich literary tradition associated with the area. It is my only hope that I’ve, in turn, helped to propel the city’s literary scene and push the possibilities of poetry.”  The Poet Laureate is a ceremonial appointment with a term of four years. Some of the key responsibilities of the role include: Presenting works at civic events and attending official functions as a literary ambassador Developing public programming across the city, including workshops and showcasing events Enhancing current Boston Public Schools and Boston Public Library poetry programs through events, engagement, and outreach Acting as the juror for the Mayor’s Poetry Program at City Hall Serving as a resource for the City, the literary community, and Boston’s residents during National Poetry Month in April Participating in the Youth Poet Laureate application and selection process Mentoring the Youth Poet Laureate through regular meetings, public event preparation, published works, and holding relationships with Boston Public Schools and Boston Public Libraries To be considered for the role, applicants must be at least 21 years old, be a current resident of Boston who has lived in the city for at least two years prior to nomination, be active as a professional poet, and produce work that reflects the vibrancy and life of the City of Boston.  The position will be chosen by a Selection Panel, consisting of a distinguished group of literary professionals that will act as a search committee. The Selection Panel will evaluate all entries and hold interviews with the final candidates. The City will announce the new Poet Laureate in January 2025, with a term beginning on July 1, 2025 and ending on June 31, 2029. Interested candidates can join the current Poet Laureate, Porsha Olayiwola, and Mayor’s Office of Arts and Culture staff for an information session and office hours to learn more. There will be an information session on September 6, 2024, at 1 pm, and a second session on September 12, 2024, at 6 pm. The deadline to apply is Monday, September 30, 2024 by 5 pm. Applications can be submitted online or by mail. Digital entries are encouraged but all entries will receive equal consideration.  Learn more and submit your application or nomination at boston.gov/callforpoets.

20 programs receiving funds to install clean energy systems, add safety improvements, and improve accessibility for kids and adults

BOSTON — The Healey-Driscoll Administration announced today that 20 organizations across Massachusetts are being awarded $8.5 million in capital funding to renovate early education and out-of-school time program facilities that serve primarily low-income families. At East Boston Social Center, Education Secretary Tutwiler, Early Education and Care Commissioner Kershaw and Director of Outdoor Recreation Jahnige highlighted how this investment will support renovation projects to expand capacity and improve the indoor and outdoor quality and accessibility of learning environments for children, ensuring they have safe, healthy, inclusive, and developmentally appropriate spaces to learn, play, and grow. 

“Making early education and care more affordable and accessible is a top priority for our administration. Capital investments are an important part of that. These capital grants give our hardworking child care programs the financial resources they need to provide modern, healthy, and safe environments for our kids to learn and play. This funding also helps us make progress on our climate goals, which is essential for ensuring our kids have secure futures,” said Governor Maura Healey. 

“I am excited to see how this $8.5 million investment in capital projects for our local early education and child care programs will foster the kind of physical indoor and outdoor spaces our children deserve to learn and play in every day,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “These funds improve programs’ energy efficiency, ventilation and water conservation, accessibility for families and educators, add new security measures, update outdoor play areas, and so much more.” 

As part of the Administration's whole-of-government approach to addressing climate change, and in collaboration with the Climate Office, projects were prioritized that focused on clean energy and decarbonization. Projects that included security enhancements to prevent and respond to potential threats, such as active shooters and installation of security cameras and access control systems, were also prioritized. Examples of eligible funding use includes modifications to improve indoor air quality, roof replacements, upgrading electrical or security systems, and physical environment modifications addressing accessibility or other upgrades for classrooms, outdoor areas, and more. 

“We are proud to be awarding $8.5 million in capital funding to 20 child care programs across the state, promoting accessible, safe, and inclusive spaces for children of all backgrounds and abilities to grow, learn, and play,” said Secretary of Education Dr. Patrick Tutwiler. “It was great to be at East Boston Social Center today to learn how this grant will support their accessibility project to improve movement in and out of the center, especially for children and adults with limited mobility.” 

“Today’s announced grant awards are infusing funds into our local communities, like here in East Boston, to renovate, repair, and expand child care facilities, enabling our kids and educators to spend time in newer, greener and more accessible and safe high-quality learning environments. Capital investments like these are making Massachusetts a better place to live, go to school, work, raise a family, and build a better future,” said Early Education and Care Commissioner Amy Kershaw. 

“Outdoor play and resilient facilities are fundamental for healthy childhood learning and development, but the impacts of climate change may threaten these essential features of early education,” said Director of Outdoor Recreation, Paul Jahnige. “These grant support resilient outdoor play spaces and low-carbon, resilient facilities. Improving the quality and accessibility our learning environments ensures that our youngest residents have healthy and safe spaces to play and grow.” 

The capital opportunities are administered by the Department of Early Education and Care (EEC) in partnership with the Children’s Investment Fund (CIF), an affiliate of the Community Economic Development Assistance Corporation (CEDAC). This funding is available through the administration's FY24 - FY28 Capital Investment Plan Early Education and Out-of-School Time (EEOST) fund and from the Early Education & Care Provider Capital funding delivered in the fiscal year 2024 state budget. For the first time, for-profit child care centers and out-of-school time programs that serve at least 50% of children who receive public benefits were eligible. 

“We are absolutely thrilled to celebrate the immense, transformative impact of these grants. Massachusetts remains at the forefront of state investment in early education and care facilities, and this year is no exception, with 20 projects awarded funding," said Theresa Jordan, Director of the Children’s Investment Fund. 

"With this EEOST small project grant, East Boston Social Centers will make essential repairs and updates to our elevator, which was first installed in the 1990s. This will ensure disability or mobility challenges will never be a barrier to our Early Learners and Bright Minds School Age children accessing our high-quality programming that supports their joy, learning, and thriving.  By supporting investments to update and improve aging buildings and spaces, these grants ensure children learn in high-quality spaces, and ensure programs can invest our resources in the compensation our educators deserve and the programming materials our children need," said Justin Pasquariello, Executive Director of East Boston Social Center. 

Programs are eligible to receive $200,000 - $500,000 in funding per project. Awardees include: 

Angela's Preschool and Daycare (Peabody) - $500,000 

Funding supports improvements to the security system, replacement of windows and Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) upgrades, as well as kitchen ventilation and upgraded bathroom fixtures. 

Boys & Girls Club of Greater Holyoke - $421,000 

Funding supports security upgrades including installation of keyless entry system, new fence and parking lot gate system, as well as installation of metal rolling shutters on room windows and main hallway. 

Bright Futures Early Learning Center (Springfield) - $500,000 

Funding will add a handwashing sink in 1 classroom, add bathrooms for 3 classrooms, create a lightwell in a classroom that has no access to natural light, build an enclosure at the entrance for kids waiting for transportation, build a shed for playground equipment, and purchase lockdown emergency kits. 

Child Care of the Berkshires (North Adams) - $483,000 

Funding supports new fencing, landscaping and play structure installation, as well as replace windows, flooring in two classrooms, the roof system and the steam boiler, adding a dual fuel burner and installing an air conditioning condenser.  

Children's Express Child Care (Dorchester) - $500,000 

Funding supports purchasing and installing a new all-electric hot water system and piping, a new fire and water tie-in to the street, and a temporary chiller and boiler during their larger HVAC system transformation. 

East Boston Social Centers - $246,000 

Funding supports updating the elevator controller, wiring, traveling cable, two door operators, four floors of door equipment, and electrical upgrades, as well as procuring evacuation chairs to aid individuals with limited mobility in exiting the building during emergencies.  

Greater Holyoke YMCA - $500,000 

Funding supports purchasing indoor and exterior security cameras, as well as create egress from the preschool classrooms and a new entrance and exit for the after school classrooms and program spaces.

Guild of St. Agnes (Webster) - $500,000 

Funding supports replacing the HVAC system, installing a new fire alarm and adding a new video surveillance system. 

Kid-Start (Lawrence) - $500,000 

Funding supports a new HVAC system with energy-efficient rooftop unit, replacing windows, and new exterior doors, intercom, alarm system, playground surfacing, climbing structures, and fence.  

L.P. College (Dartmouth Street, New Bedford) - $370,000; L.P. College (Acushnet Ave, New Bedford) - $500,000 

For both projects: funding supports replacing the HVAC systems, doors, and roofs, installing new security systems and adding new play structures and musical elements, as well as new rubber surfacing.  

Pathways for Children (Beverly) - $246,000 

Funding supports redesigning the playground to maximize natural play, accessibility, inclusiveness, cooperative engagement as well as learning and discovery.  

Rainbow Child Development Center (Worcester) - $500,000 

Funding supports replacing windows and the building’s front door and sidelights.   

South Boston Neighborhood House - $236,000 

Funding supports full replacement of the building siding, updating the bathrooms and flooring, and replacing the carpeting. 

South Shore Stars (Quincy) - $500,000 

Funding supports installing security, access control and intercom systems and replacing all entry doors with security doors and two HVAC rooftop units, as well as the existing roof system. 

The Community Group (Lawrence) - $272,000 

Funding supports updated play structure and rubber surfacing, installation of shed for storage of playground equipment, repaving the parking lot, installation of interior and exterior security cameras and an intercom system, as well as replace an exterior door and install interior dual-locking doorknobs.

 

The Learning Tree Daycare and Preschool (Medway) - $500,000 

Funding supports new woodchips and artificial turf, playground equipment including play structures, water tables, sand tables, and benches, new fencing, and new planting to incorporate natural features.  

Woburn Council of Social Concern - $500,000  

Funding supports replacing two play structures, doors, windows and installation of new kitchenettes, as well as updating bathrooms to include new wall tile, toilets, faucets, touchless soap dispensers and hand dryers and install new, sustainable floors in classrooms, hallway, and gym.   

YMCA of Central Massachusetts (Southbridge) - $495,000 

Funding supports installation of accessible play structures, new tables and a shade canopy, removing diseased trees and replacing a fence.  

YMCA of Greater Boston - $251,000 

Funding supports replacement of exterior doors and installation of video access control systems on the front door, directly connecting to six early education classrooms.

Healey-Driscoll Administration Awards Nearly $6 Million in Grants to 61 Tourism Destinations Across Massachusetts

Healey-Driscoll Administration Awards Nearly $6 Million in Grants to 61 Tourism Destinations Across Massachusetts 

BOSTON—Today, the Healey-Driscoll Administration announced $5.9 million in grants to 61 cultural and tourism projects through the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism’s Destination Development Capital (DDC) grant program, which supports projects that expand, construct, restore, or renovate Massachusetts tourism destinations and attractions. 

“Massachusetts is a world-class destination thanks to our rich culture and iconic landmarks,” said Governor Maura Healey. “With these grants, we are supporting small businesses, driving job creation, and investing in local and regional economies across the state. Many of the destinations we are supporting with these grants are tied to our revolutionary past and will have a critical role to play in our upcoming MA250 celebrations.” 

“Our state’s tourism industry remains an important part of our economic development strategy,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “These grants to Massachusetts’ unique cultural assets will help ensure the state remains premier destination for travelers around the globe, and we are proud to announce these investments.”  

This round of competitive grants is designed to strengthen the state’s economy by investing in tourism infrastructure and experiences. Grant recipients will use the funds to expand, construct, restore, or renovate their facilities and attractions. Projects funded in this round will preserve historic town halls, create interactive tourism experiences, and design multi-media exhibits. Approximately 15 percent of this year’s grants will support revitalization efforts in five Massachusetts Gateway Cities, an investment that will help transform these urban centers into vibrant destinations, boosting tourism statewide. 

“Tourism plays a vital role in the economic well-being of our state,” said Economic Development Secretary Hao. “These grants will support updates to our cultural, historic, natural, and community resources that are important to the visitor experience, and we are excited to see these projects come to life.” 

“We were thrilled by the enthusiastic response to this grant program this year, which saw a record high number of applications and funding requests,” said MOTT Executive Director Kate Fox. “The selected projects showcase our state’s strong commitment to growing the tourism industry and providing visitors and Massachusetts residents alike with unforgettable experiences.” 

"Tourism, the arts, and cultural institutions are important drivers of our economy here in Massachusetts, and perhaps nowhere more so than in the Berkshires and Western Massachusetts. The Destination Development Capital Grant program is an important partnership where state government is able to directly support the local institutions that grow jobs, provide educational experiences, and enhance the lives and vibrancy of our communities,” said Senator Paul Mark (D-Beckett). “I am grateful to the Healey Driscoll administration for their hard work ensuring that every part of our Commonwealth is receiving the support needed for our tourism economy to thrive." 

“Local tourism assets are anchors of our communities, fueling our commonwealth's tourism economy. I'm excited that the awards announced today provide necessary capital funds to a variety of institutions from every corner of the commonwealth,” said Representative Mindy Domb (D-Amherst). “Together these awards will surely support the economic development so closely connected to the tourism sector, promote further visitation, and encourage cross-commonwealth excursions." 

時信樓改建25層高酒店? 波士頓市府收到申請文件

時信樓。 (檔案照片，周菊子攝)

               (Boston Orange 編譯) 波士頓華埠夏利臣街 (Harrison Ave.,) 15到25號的時信樓在丟空12年後，最近向波士頓計畫發展局 (BPDA) 再次遞交計畫。業主和土地發展商這次想蓋高25層樓高，有106個房間的狹窄酒店。

             
根據地契，業主陳新明 (譯音，Sing Ming Chan)在2014年以490萬元買下這塊地，2016年時已經打算蓋酒店，但礙於各種狀況，當年並未繼續。文件紀錄顯示，陳新明去年以這塊地向Newburyport銀行貸款400萬元。

              在遞交給波士頓市府的蓋樓計畫文件上，這是一名地方上的華裔美籍商人提出申請，並稱這種酒店在美國其他的市區華埠內十分普遍。

              去年，陳新明提出要在南波士頓D街上蓋一座9層樓高，有75個單位的住宅大樓，以取代該地塊上限有的低矮工業是樓宇。這一發展計畫波士頓市府仍在審核中。

              在華埠的這個酒店發展計畫，將佔地僅8萬平方英尺，會大幅超過區域規劃所允許的高度及容積率。該發展計畫並不打算蓋停車位。

              近年來，波士頓市府優先考慮在華埠建可負擔住宅。2015年時，有一家和Westbrook夥伴公司有關連的公司提議在Essex街73到79號蓋一座有225個房間的酒店，但該計畫也未推進。

以下為與時信樓有關的早年新聞:

https://www.bostonorange.com/2012/02/blog-post_5118.html

https://www.bostonorange.com/2012/02/blog-post_9281.html

https://www.bostonorange.com/2012/02/45.html