House Passes Comprehensive Criminal Justice Reform Legislation

House Passes Comprehensive Criminal Justice Reform Legislation

(BOSTON) – The Massachusetts House of Representatives today passed comprehensive criminal justice reform legislation that will lead to a more equitable system by supporting our youngest and most vulnerable residents, reducing recidivism, increasing judicial discretion, and enhancing public safety.

“This landmark legislation will make our criminal justice system significantly more equitable while enhancing public safety through a series of workable, real-world solutions,” said House Speaker Robert A. DeLeo.  “I am proud of the unprecedented reforms we’ve made to support our youngest and most vulnerable residents, particularly children facing adversity and individuals of all ages battling addiction. I am grateful for the dedication and insight of Chairwoman Cronin, and I thank Chairman Sanchez, Leader Mariano and Chief Justice Ireland for their guidance.”

“The reforms made in this bill address all aspects of the criminal justice system from a person’s first contact with the criminal justice system, up until an individual leaves the system and re-enters society,” said Representative Claire Cronin, Chair of the House Committee on the Judiciary. “We have updated and improved our laws, made the system more equitable, and are giving people opportunities to rebuild their lives, while also ensuring public safety. This comprehensive and workable bill will have a meaningful impact on the criminal justice system.”

“Growing up in Boston, many of my childhood friends felt the impacts of an unjust criminal justice system,” said Representative Jeffrey Sánchez, Chair of the House Committee on Ways & Means. “These bills focus on treating people as individuals, rather than the product of broad-based policies. Through a number of practical and progressive reforms, the House has taken steps to improve the criminal justice system, so people can make the most of opportunities and end the cycle of incarceration.”  

“Our objective with this legislation is to reduce recidivism by removing the many obstacles facing justice-involved individuals after they have served their time,” said Majority Leader Ronald Mariano. “Individuals in our communities deserve a chance to effectively transition back into productive members of society, and this bill eliminates roadblocks toward achieving that goal.  We believe these changes will be instrumental in encouraging folks that mistakes of their past will not serve as a life sentence.”

“This is a reform plan for the real world,” said Chief Justice Roderick L. Ireland, Distinguished Professor of Criminology and Criminal Justice at Northeastern University. “This bill provides judges with enhanced discretion and allows people to reclaim their lives after their debt to society is paid. I commend Speaker DeLeo and the Massachusetts House for their meaningful work on a very complex issue.”

MAYOR WALSH TO CELEBRATE COMMON TREE LIGHTING ON NOVEMBER 30

MAYOR WALSH TO CELEBRATE COMMON TREE LIGHTING ON NOVEMBER 30

Annual celebration will be broadcast live on WCVB Channel 5

BOSTON - Monday, November 13, 2017 - Mayor Martin J. Walsh and the Honourable Stephen McNeil, Premier of Nova Scotia, will commemorate 100 years of friendship between Boston and Nova Scotia at the 76th Annual Tree Lighting on Boston Common on Thursday, November 30, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.   "Nova Scotia and Boston have shared a special bond for a century, and I'm pleased we will come together again this year to celebrate the friendship and connection between our two homes," said Mayor Walsh. The celebration is presented by the Boston Parks and Recreation Department, title sponsor The Province of Nova Scotia, Jumbotron sponsor JetBlue, and presenting sponsors Distrigas/ENGIE and IKEA with media partners WCVB Channel 5, Magic 106.7 FM, the Boston Herald and the Boston Globe. Additional support is provided by The Christmas Tree Promotion Board, XFINITY and Capital One.   The holiday lights throughout both parks will light up in sequence shortly before 8 p.m., when Mayor Walsh will be joined onstage by Premier McNeil, members of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and Santa Claus. The show will close with a pyrotechnic display by Atlas PyroVision.   The holiday decorations throughout the Boston Common and the Public Garden include the City of Boston's official Christmas tree. A 53-foot white spruce tree donated by Bob and Marion Campbell and family of Blues Mills in Inverness County on Cape Breton Island has been selected for this year's celebration.   "A century ago, our American neighbors played a critical role in aiding our province during the aftermath of the Halifax Explosion," said Premier McNeil. "Nova Scotia will never forget the support the people of Boston and the surrounding area provided.  As a thank you, and to mark our ongoing friendship, we are very pleased once again to give the gift of a beautiful Nova Scotia Christmas tree and celebrate the season in your city." WCVB's Anthony Everett and Shayna Seymour will host Channel 5's live broadcast of the event beginning at 7 p.m. featuring Nova Scotia's Port Cities, Grammy-nominated songwriter and performer Kara DioGuardi, the cast of "Elf: The Musical," Ellis C. Dawson III from the cast of Disney's "Aladdin," the Boston Pops Gospel Choir, and this year's headliner, the Grammy Award-winning group All 4 One. The lighting of the trees on the Common is made possible through the generosity of The Egan Foundation, the Lynch Family, the Massachusetts Convention Center Authority, John Moriarty & Associates and contributions from other individuals and institutions.   The annual holiday display includes the official Christmas tree from Nova Scotia and trees throughout Boston Common. Refreshments and additional support will be provided by promotional sponsors Dunkin' Donuts, DAVIDsTEA, H.P. Hood LLC, DASANI SPARKLING, the Must Be The Milk initiative of the New England Dairy Promotion Board and an appearance by the L.L. Bean Bootmobile.   This is the 46th year that Nova Scotia has given a tree to the people of Boston as thanks for relief efforts following the December 6, 1917, explosion of a munitions ship in Halifax Harbor. Within 24 hours of the disaster a train loaded with supplies and emergency personnel was making its way from Boston to Nova Scotia. For more information please call (617) 635-4505, go to www.boston.gov/parks, or visit us on Facebook. For Boston Common parking information go to www.massconvention.com/bcg.html.

House Passes Legislation to Support and Honor Military Veterans

House Passes Legislation to Support and Honor Military Veterans

BOSTON – Representative Steve Ultrino (D – Malden) joined his colleagues in the House of Representatives to pass two bills to support Massachusetts’ veterans. These bills build upon the Commonwealth’s legacy as the first state in the nation for the number of programs and services it offers to military personnel, veterans and their families.

“I am immensely proud that Massachusetts ranks first in the nation when it comes to military-benefit programs and services,” House Speaker Robert A. DeLeo said. “This legislation sends a message to our heroes and their families that we appreciate their bravery, sacrifice and service. While these two bills are small steps, the House is continuing its work in providing critical and well-deserved supports.”

"We wanted to put these important bills out before Veterans Day to honor those who have served as a small token of our appreciation,” said Representative John J. Lawn, Jr., Chair of the House Committee on Veterans and Federal Affairs.

“Our veterans and their families have given so much to our country, and this legislation honors that sacrifice by helping to make the lives of veterans just a little easier,” said Representative Ultrino. “It’s one small step in our history of supporting veterans,  and in recognizing their service and sacrifice.”

Under legislation passed by the House, every municipality in the Commonwealth will now designate one parking space at its town or city hall as “veterans-only parking.”

The House also took action to enable municipalities to more easily collect donations for their Veterans Memorial and Patriotic Celebration Funds. This legislation allows cities and towns to include a check-off box on municipal tax or motor vehicle excise tax bills through which residents can pledge donations to be used for the creation and restoration of monuments and other activities that honor the contributions and sacrifices of local veterans.

MAYOR WALSH ANNOUNCES BOSTON CENTERS FOR YOUTH & FAMILIES' 2017 HUBNOB EVENT

MAYOR WALSH ANNOUNCES  BOSTON CENTERS FOR YOUTH & FAMILIES'  2017 HUBNOB EVENT

The annual night of fun to benefit the Foundation for BCYF will be held on Wednesday, November 29

BOSTON - Monday, November 13, 2017 - Mayor Martin J. Walsh and the Foundation for Boston Centers for Youth & Families (BCYF) today announced HubNob will be held on Wednesday, November 29, 2017 at the House of Blues Boston and will feature a "Big Top HubNob" carnival theme.   Every year, over 700 party-goers, supporters, and public officials come together for a night of fun and philanthropy to support BCYF.  Boston Centers for Youth & Families is the City of Boston's largest youth and human service agency operating 36 community facilities in Boston. "BCYF is a critical resource for Boston's families providing safe, healthy and enriching programs at centers across the city," said Mayor Walsh. "My thanks to the Foundation for BCYF for hosting HubNob each year and supporting the important work of BCYF that positively impacts the lives of children and families here in Boston." The Foundation for BCYF will roll out the red carpet with a carnival theme, "Big Top HubNob," focusing on having fun with a purpose and highlighting BCYF's programs and facilities to create awareness for BCYF. Guests will enjoy prize-winning games, an auction, food from local restaurants, and live entertainment by Boston's top dance band, Soul City Band. Proceeds from the event go towards outcome-driven programs and services for Boston's youth and families.    Coach Willie Maye, in-arena host for the Boston Celtics, will serve as master of ceremonies and auction off unique items during the VIP Reception held in the Foundation Room. Corporate Partner of the Year, Kevin Fitzgerald Community Empowerment and Kevin Fitzgerald Citywide Excellence Awards will be presented to Comcast, Elizabeth Miranda, Executive Director of Hawthorne Youth and Community Center, and BCYF staff members. "The Foundation for BCYF is proud to host HubNob each year and bring people together from across the city with the shared goal of supporting the great work of BCYF," said Michael Christopher, Chair, Foundation for BCYF.   BCYF's 30 community centers, 18 pools and one beach offer a variety of educational, recreational and social programming for people of all ages. Through the support of volunteers, local advisory councils, and many community partners, BCYF centers' programs reflect the needs and interests of each individual Boston neighborhood. Last year's HubNob surpassed fundraising goals and enabled the Foundation for BCYF to support a range of programs and initiatives including the BCYF Youth Enrichment Day attended by 1,500 Boston youth, educational field trips for after school participants, BCYF's free Family Gym wellness program, the BCYF Citywide Spelling Bee, and healing retreats for youth affected by violence. "HubNob is a vital source of support for BCYF's programming," said William Morales, Commissioner of BCYF. "The funds raised through this event allow us to provide Boston's youth and families with access to valuable, attainable enrichment opportunities." For more information about the event, contact HubNob's event producer, AJ Williams at AJ Williams Events at 617-267-2244 or Pamela A. Leins, Director of Planning & Development, Boston Centers for Youth & Families (BCYF) at 617-635-4920 x2701. About The Foundation for Boston Centers for Youth and Families The Foundation for BCYF secures funding and resources to support Boston Centers for Youth & Families' key program priorities such as aquatics, girls, summer, seniors, teens, youth employment, the Family Gym wellness program, and the BCYF Streetworker program. These programs serve a diverse array of citizens in Boston.

TREASURER GOLDBERG ANNOUNCES WOMEN’S ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT WORKSHOP IN NEW BEDFORD

TREASURER GOLDBERG ANNOUNCES WOMEN’S ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT WORKSHOP IN NEW BEDFORD

BOSTON – Treasurer Deb Goldberg has announced an additional location for the Women’s Economic Empowerment Series. The initiative, launched in collaboration with Citizens Bank, is a free program focusing on wage negotiation, money management, retirement and investment strategies for women. The workshop will be held at New Bedford High School on December 6th.

“Women face unique challenges when it comes to financial security,” said Treasurer Deb Goldberg. “This Program will continue to provide critical information that will give women in New Bedford the skills they need to be successful in today’s economy.”

For more specifics on the event details, programmatic content, and to register please visit the program’s site HERE. New Bedford was chosen as part of a statewide expansion to bring economic security workshops to women across Massachusetts. The workshop, held in partnership with the Women’s Fund of Southeastern Massachusetts and the YWCA of Southeastern Massachusetts, is designed to help empower women and give them the tools to secure their economic future and reach their full financial potential

On day one, Treasurer Goldberg created the Office of Economic Empowerment (OEE), led by a deputy treasurer, with the deliberate goal of implementing a range of economic empowerment initiatives that include closing the gender wage gap, increasing access to financial education, improving college affordability, and investing in STEM careers and education. For more information visit http://www.mass.gov/treasury/empowerment or follow the hashtag #EqualPayMA.

Baker-Polito Administration Celebrates Planting of 10,000thGreening the Gateway Cities Tree

Baker-Polito Administration Celebrates Planting of 10,000thGreening the Gateway Cities Tree

LYNN – At a ceremonial planting, Governor Charlie Baker, Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Matthew Beaton and Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) Commissioner Leo Roy, today joined with City of Lynn officials and others to celebrate the planting of the 10,000th tree under the Commonwealth’s Greening the Gateway Cities Program. The program, which increases the number of trees within urban neighborhoods, provides energy efficiency and environmental benefits to Gateway Cities across Massachusetts. Since the program’s inception, 13 of the state’s 26 Gateway Cities have participated.

“Massachusetts has always been at the forefront of innovative environmental initiatives, such as the Greening the Gateway Cities Program, that provide benefits to homeowners, local businesses, and municipalities,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “The Commonwealth is grateful to see so many positive results from the efforts of our dedicated foresters and tree planting crews to reduce energy consumption through increased urban tree canopy.”

“From Pittsfield to Lynn, thirteen of the Commonwealth’s cities have directly benefitted from partnerships under the Greening the Gateway Cities Program and we look forward to planting the next 10,000 trees,” said Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito. “Our administration is committed to investing in the future of the Commonwealth’s urban communities, protecting and enhancing important environmental resources.”

Last year, the Baker-Polito Administration expanded the Greening the Gateway Cities Program to include Lynn alongside the cities of Brockton, Chelsea, Chicopee, Fall River, Haverhill, Holyoke, Lawrence, Leominster, New Bedford, Pittsfield, Quincy, and Revere.  To support planting in these thirteen cities, the Commonwealth is investing $8 million per year in energy efficiency and state capital funds to plant thousands of trees averaging six feet in height.  Already, more than 200 trees have been planted in the City of Lynn, progressing toward the goal of 2,400. As the trees mature, the program is expected to yield financial benefits that amount to more than twice the investment made by the Baker-Polito Administration.

“The expansion of DCR’s Greening the Gateway Cities Program has allowed communities like Lynn to reap the benefits of a healthier, more vibrant urban tree canopy, while allowing the Commonwealth to pursue its emission reduction goals under the Global Warming Solutions Act,” said Energy and Environmental AffairsSecretary Beaton. “Connecting residents with the nature around them is good for both our climate and our economy, and I look forward to seeing thousands more trees planted across our Gateway Cities in the near future.”

Through the program, communities will see numerous benefits, including:

An expansion of the urban tree canopy by 5-10% in select neighborhoods in each Gateway City;

Savings of approximately $230 a year through reduced heating and cooling costs for each household within selected neighborhoods;

Increased property values for thousands of residents living within 50 feet of new trees;

Increased tax receipts for cities thanks to more valuable properties;

Hiring of foresters and tree planting crews from the cities where planting takes place;

Reduction in stormwater runoff;

Increased air quality; and

A safer, healthier environment for residents. 

“The Department of Conservation and Recreation is fortunate to have so many partners at the local level who have worked closely with us to implement successful programs like Greening the Gateway Cities, and today’s planting signifies how much has been accomplished,” said DCR Commissioner Leo Roy. “Importantly, by increasing tree canopy within urban communities, the Baker-Polito Administration is able to improve air quality, reduce energy consumption, and further beautify neighborhoods, by bringing parks to the people.”

“It’s great to celebrate the planting of the 10,000th tree through the Greening the Gateway Cities Program here in Lynn today,” said State Senator Thomas M. McGee (D-Lynn). “State and local partnerships such as this will result in safer, healthier environments for our residents.” 

“From our thousands of acres of forest in Lynn Woods to our many parklands across the city, we have always taken pride in our trees and natural resources,” said State Representative Brendan Crighton (D-Lynn).”This program is both great for the environment and improves our neighborhoods.”

“Urban forestation leads to a cleaner environment and a decrease in adverse health effects,” said State Representative Dan Cahill (D-Lynn). “Greening the Gateway Cities program is a successful commitment to growing Lynn’s urban ecosystem and benefiting us for years to come.”

Residents or property owners in targeted neighborhoods within the 13 Gateway Cities where planting is taking place that wish to participate may sign up to receive planted trees at no costs as long as they commit to watering the trees for two summers. Interested parties may call the DCR’s Urban and Community Forestry Program at 617-626-1502 or visit the agency’s website.

Mayor Setti Warren and Mayor-Elect Ruthanne Fuller

Mayor Setti Warren and

Mayor-Elect Ruthanne Fuller

Newton – This morning, Newton Mayor Setti Warren and Mayor-elect Ruthanne Fuller hosted a press availability to discuss the transition of government.

“I would like to congratulate Ruthanne on her historic electoral victory Tuesday night,” said Mayor Warren. “Her position as the first woman to be mayor of Newton is an exciting moment for us all. The successful transition of government is vital to the city’s operations, which is why over the last few months we have been diligently preparing for this moment. I am personally committed to be available to Mayor-elect Fuller as she needs and we are all ready to provide her with the information and resources that she needs to succeed.”

As part of the transition process, Mayor-elect Fuller will have office space in City Hall, scheduled meetings with department heads, and access to the regular cross-department meetings that occur on a weekly basis. She will also be provided a comprehensive transition memo, outlining the structure, function, and projects of each department.

“I want to thank Mayor Warren for his leadership of Newton these past eight years," said Mayor-elect Fuller. "Thanks to him Newton is in a very strong position. I am honored that Newton residents have given me the opportunity to serve as the city’s next mayor. I look forward to working alongside Mayor Warren to ensure a smooth transition of government. I’d like to thank Mayor Warren and his team for their commitment to this process and the preparations they have made. I will be in City Hall regularly to meet with department heads, city staff members, and the Mayor to learn more about ongoing projects and operations so that on January 1st  I can successfully assume leadership of the city.”

The seamless continuation of city services, preservation of public safety, and maintenance of the city’s finances are key components to the transition.

波士頓慶祝退伍軍人節 榮光會，經文組遊行致敬

【波城榮光會參與遊行 中華民國國旗飄揚】

波士頓榮光聯誼會參與美國退伍軍人節(Veteran’s Day)大遊行，

在波士頓公園集合準備出發

波士頓榮光聯誼會於11月11日由駐波士頓臺北經濟文化辦事處副處長陳銘俊、僑教中心主任歐宏偉和榮光會理事長石家孝率隊，參與美國退伍軍人節(Veteran’s Day)大遊行，隊員們身穿黃背心、頭戴船型帽，手持中華民國及美國的巨幅國旗，從波士頓公園出發，朝市政府廣場前進。在前導樂隊演奏愛國歌曲下，榮光會的遊行隊伍顯得格外醒目，沿途圍觀群眾也給予熱情的歡呼和掌聲。

波士頓榮光聯誼會隊員們身穿黃背心、頭戴船型帽，手持
中華民國及美國國旗，從波士頓公園出發，朝市政府廣場前進

石家孝強調，榮光會參與波士頓退伍軍人大遊行活動已近20年，是唯一受邀參加遊行的外國隊伍，相當光榮。陳銘俊表示，榮光會參與此次遊行不僅充分展現了愛國情操，表達對所有為國捐軀者和退伍軍人的崇高敬意，同時也再次見證了中華民國與美國自第二次世界大戰並肩作戰以來的情誼。

波士頓榮光聯誼會參與美國退伍軍人節(Veteran’s Day)大遊行

後，駐波士頓臺北經文處副處長陳銘俊(前排左三)、僑教中心主任

歐宏偉(前排右一)、榮光會理事長石家孝(前排右二)與全體隊員們在

波士頓市政府廣場前合影

波士頓僑教中心主任歐宏偉表示，每年此時都能見到中華民國國旗飄揚在美國主流社會，很感謝榮光會所有參與的僑胞先進，讓各族裔人士瞭解中華民國政府對二戰的付出與貢獻；而在今年7月甫抵任的新聞組副組長趙昌倫和秘書王麗芬，以及多位僑胞都是第一次參加遊行活動，心中也充滿感動。(圖與文:波士頓僑教中心提供)