胡桃山音樂夏令營落幕 師生音樂會場場博好評

中華表演藝術基金會提供

(Boston Orange整理報導) 中華表演基金會第26屆胡桃山音樂營，在48名青年音樂才俊師事29名世界一流大師將近一個月，舉辦了19場音樂會，11場大師班及講座，1場協奏曲比賽後，已於8月13日圓滿落幕。

中華表演基金會會長譚嘉陵表示，今年的胡桃山音樂營格外受歡迎，報名人數出乎意料的多，但礙於名額限制，經甄試，只錄取了48名青年音樂才俊，年紀在13到29歲之間，分別來自美國，英國，波蘭，台灣，以及中國的香港，北京，上海等地。其中有20人為舊生，很多人已得過許多國際獎項，還有人已取得音樂碩士或博士學位。

今年的胡桃山音樂營，師資陣容也格外強大，有29位世界一流的“重量級大師”，包括2006的普立茲音樂獎主Yehudi Wyner，紐英崙音樂學院鋼琴系主任Bruce Brubaker，柯蒂斯及新英格蘭音樂學院教授劉孟捷，茱莉亞音樂學院教授陳宏寬，德國Freibury教授陳必先等人。

這些胡桃山音樂營師生在7月20日至8月13日的本年度音樂營營期之間，共舉行了19場音樂會，11場大師班及講座，以及一場協奏曲比賽。

在音樂營上課期間，所有學員在一對一個人課程之外，還參加二重奏，三重奏，四重奏，五重奏，以及不同形式的室內樂演奏，所有弦樂學員都加入弦樂團表演，以增加學員表演機會。音樂營還安排有全都免費對外開放的音樂會，大師班，示範講座，包括學生獨奏作品的明日之星音樂會，室內樂組的大型晚會等。部分學生還獲邀參加教師音樂會，和大師同台演出。

其中和水星(Mercury)交響樂團在麻省理工學院奎斯吉(Kresge)劇院的演出，更是學員們難忘的經歷。水星交響樂團指揮余建寧(Channing Yu)也是胡桃山音樂營早年的學生。

今年的胡桃山音樂營演出，還有2017年協奏曲比賽冠軍，來自中國的李宇航獨奏鋼琴曲，拉赫瑪尼諾夫的”帕尼尼主題狂想曲(Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini)”。

在音樂營活動期間，學員們除了研習音樂，演奏技藝，還去了探戈塢(Tanglwood)欣賞波士頓交響樂團的音樂會，參觀博物館，登船遊波士頓海港，上中國餐館用餐等休閒活動。

中華表演藝術基金會胡桃山夏令營還有好幾場音樂會受到媒體關注，報導。波士頓最大的的古典音樂雜誌 Boston Music Intellengencer，就做了6次報導評論，對Larry Weng，Artur Haftman，Han Chen，Alexander Korsantia，Eric Lu，以及Mana Tokuno等人的音樂會演出，都給予很高評價及讚美。他甚至將這個音樂節命名為“南邊的岩港音樂節(Rockport Music festival South)”，足見他對音樂節的高度讚譽和肯定。

九月將是2017-2018年度音樂季的開始，一連串精彩表演將一一上場，查詢地址及詳細內容，可上網www.chineseperformingarts.net。

                 這些音樂會包括都在新英格蘭音樂學院喬登廳(Jordan Hall)舉行，安排在2017年9月23日(週六)晚8點，由北美中樂團演出的”花果靈根集”，2017年11月4日(週六)晚上8點的Parker 弦樂四重奏和韓裔鋼琴家Jung-Ja Kim聯合演出音樂會。

                  2018年起，1月27日(週六)晚上8點，有旅德鋼琴家陳必先鋼琴演奏會，3月21日(週六)晚上8點，有華裔青年小提琴家于翔及鋼琴家Andrew Hsu的聯合舉行音樂會，5月12日(週六)晚上8點，有獲得蕭邦大獎的越裔鋼琴家鄧泰山鋼琴演奏會。

                     另外還有兩項全國性比賽，也已排定日程，包括訂2017年9月30日及10月7日(週六)，在波士頓第一教堂 (First Church in Boston)舉行的第9屆絲竹春吟青少年中國器樂選拔賽和音樂會，以及訂2018年4月15日的第27屆全美青少年國畫書法賽。

               查詳情可上網www.ChinesePerformingArts.net，或洽中華表演藝術基金會會長譚嘉陵，電郵：Foundation@ChinesePerformingArts.net。(圖片與內容資料由中華表演藝術基金會提供)

Baker-Polito Administration Visits New State Police Homeland Security and Preparedness Division

Baker-Polito Administration Visits New State Police Homeland Security and Preparedness Division

Division provides dedicated homeland security law enforcement capacity

FRAMINGHAM – Governor Charlie Baker, Lt. Governor Karyn Polito, Public Safety Secretary Dan Bennett and State Police Superintendent Colonel Richard McKeon today highlighted the recent creation of a new State Police division focused on combating threats to Massachusetts and the nation posed by extremists and narcotics traffickers, collecting and analyzing criminal intelligence, and protecting large-scale events and critical infrastructure.

The State Police Division of Homeland Security and Preparedness will consolidate and enhance counter-terrorism, opioid interdiction, and criminal intelligence operations currently spread throughout other divisions. The new, dedicated division will significantly increase the Department’s effectiveness and efficiency in these mission areas. The FY18 budget signed by the governor created the new division and allowed for a new State Police Class of 145 recruits.

“To keep our communities safe, it is critical that the Commonwealth continually adapt to various threats facing our state and nation to ensure the highest level of public safety and a coordinated response for first responders,” said Governor Baker. “By bringing the different elements of our homeland security operations under one command, we will enhance the ability for the State Police to coordinate, respond and protect the Commonwealth for critical incidents and threats like drug trafficking.” ​

The new Division is commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Dermot Quinn and consists of two main sections, the Commonwealth Fusion Center and the Preparedness and Planning Section. Each section is under the command of a Major, who reports to the division commander, who in turn will report directly to the Colonel/Superintendent of the Department. The establishment of these sections as two integral and coordinated parts of the new division will allow for more fully dedicated and expanded efforts in these critical homeland security areas of operation.

“As a part of the 5^th division, the Fusion Center will continue its efforts to assist in gathering, analyzing and disseminating information about criminal networks, including those involved in human trafficking,” said Lt. Governor Polito. “The new structure will also allow the State Police to be even more vigilant and informed as they work to disrupt and apprehend criminals involved in the exploitation of children.”

“With the degree of criminal complexity ever increasing, the Massachusetts State Police will continue to evolve and build an organization whose structure and capacities can meet and overcome the challenges that threaten our safety, security, and way of life,” said Secretary Bennett.

“The emerging threats and issues that we now confront demand a stronger, modernized, and wholly-dedicated homeland security and preparedness law enforcement capacity,” Colonel McKeon said. “This Department is uniquely suited – and prepared – to embrace this responsibility and the establishment of this Division will provide the platform to minimize the risk posed by the threats facing us.”

Colonel Richard McKeon noted that the mission of the Massachusetts State Police has continually evolved to meet contemporary challenges throughout the agency’s 151-year history. Since Sept. 11, 2001, the role of the State Police has grown significantly in the area of homeland security, criminal intelligence, and counter-terrorism. That mission remains a major priority of the department. Most recently, faced with the continuing opioid crisis, the Department has increased its efforts to identify and dismantle drug trafficking organizations, focusing on the transportation of narcotics into and across Massachusetts, which is in itself a threat to homeland security. Both of those missions – counter-terrorism and counter-narcotics – will be enhanced by the new division structure.

About the New State Police Homeland Security and Preparedness Division

The Commonwealth Fusion Center, which previously existed under the Division of Investigative Services, will more appropriately fit into the Division of Homeland Security structure. One of its major functions is to collect and analyze intelligence on criminal and terrorism activity and then share that information among federal, state and local partner agencies to facilitate an appropriate law enforcement response. The Fusion Center also will field units tasked with interdicting organizations trafficking opiates into and throughout Massachusetts, investigate potential terrorist activity through State Police membership on the Joint Terrorism Task Force, and investigate cybercrime.

The Preparedness and Planning Section of the new division will centralize law enforcement response planning for critical incidents and natural disasters, and security planning for large-scale events, such as the Boston Marathon, the July 4^th concert and other Esplanade events, Sail Boston, major sporting events, and public celebrations. This planning, the responsibility for which is currently dispersed throughout the department, will now be centralized and streamlined. The planning duties, by personnel whose roles will be dedicated to this task, will encompass drafting operational plans, determining necessary staffing, erecting appropriate physical security barriers, and other logistical details for events, venues, and large gatherings.

The Preparedness and Planning section within the new division will also staff and maintain a 24-hour statewide Watch Center that will monitor all developing incidents affecting public safety and security and coordinate appropriate law enforcement response across different jurisdictions and agencies. The Watch Center is being built-out within the existing State Police General Headquarters (which will, in fact, house most of the new division with the exception of the existing Fusion Center units currently based in Maynard).

State Leaders Sign Joint Resolution and Proclamation Denouncing Neo-Nazism and White Nationalism

State Leaders Sign Joint Resolution and Proclamation Denouncing Neo-Nazism and White Nationalism

MA governor Charlie Baker (By Governor's office)

BOSTON – Governor Charlie Baker, Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito, Senate President Rosenberg, House Speaker Robert DeLeo and members of the Legislature convened at the Grand Staircase of the Massachusetts State House today to present a joint resolution and proclamation denouncing neo-Nazism and white nationalism.

For the Governor’s proclamation, click here.

MA Governor Charlie Baker(right) and Lt. Governor Karyn Polito (Left)。

For the Legislature’s joint resolution, click here.

Text of Joint Resolution and Proclamation

WHEREAS, white nationalist organizations in our country have consistently promoted values that are overtly racist, anti-Semitic, and anti-immigrant, and these poisonous ideologies continue to promote hatred, bigotry, and violence specifically against individuals solely on the basis of their race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, and immigration status; and

MWHEREAS, today, white nationalism and neo-Nazism remain very real threats to the values for which the Commonwealth stands, and their reinvention as the “Alt-Right” should not mitigate their hateful ideologies; and

MA Senate President Stanley Rosenberg (Left), House Speaker Robert DeLeo
(Right)。 

WHEREAS, while free speech is a bedrock value for the citizens in our Commonwealth and Country, white nationalist and neo-Nazi groups promote a message that is the antithesis of Massachusetts’ dedication to civil rights for all, and is in irreconcilable conflict with our foundational principles of liberty and justice for all; and

WHEREAS, white nationalism and neo-Nazism are continuing to grow as menaces to societal order as they seek to reignite social animosities, reverse improvements in race relations, divide the nation, and foment hatred, classism, and ethnic eradication; and

WHEREAS, the white nationalist and neo-Nazi message of racial and social intolerance has led to senseless acts of violence that continue to terrorize members of ethnic and religious communities;

Be it resolved and proclaimed:

that the totalitarian impulses, violence, xenophobic biases, and bigoted ideologies that are promoted by white nationalists and neo-Nazis are strongly denounced and opposed; and further,

that law enforcement agencies and elected officials at every level of government are urged to condemn white nationalist and neo-Nazi ideology, vigorously pursue justice in response to hate-fueled violence and work to ensure the protection of the marginalized and targeted communities; and further,

that copies of this resolution will be transmitted to the Mayor of Charlottesville, Governor of Virginia and President of the United States.

Massachusetts Democratic Party Questions Governor Baker’s Pick for MBTA General Manager

Massachusetts Democratic Party Questions Governor Baker’s Pick for MBTA General Manager: No Transit Experience and a Failed Business Record

BOSTON – The Massachusetts Democratic Party today issued the following statement regarding a report that newly appointed MBTA General Manager Luis Ramirez’s former company is under SEC investigation for financial misstatements during his tenure as CEO:

"When Governor Baker appointed a new MBTA General Manager with zero transit experience, he promised us that his pick had 'turnaround experience.' Now we've learned that his supposed turnaround of Global Power Equipment Group was really a $47 million loss, and the company is under SEC investigation for misstating its income when he was CEO,” said Massachusetts Democratic Party Chair Gus Bickford. “If Baker's MBTA General Manager doesn't know how to run a public transportation system or how to turn around a struggling company, what was he hired to do? What is Governor Baker's plan for the T?”

“The MBTA isn’t a private corporation for Charlie Baker’s big business allies to squeeze more money out of; it’s the engine that keeps the Greater Boston economy running,” continued Bickford. “When is Governor Baker going to admit that the T needs a long term plan and new investments, not just budget cuts and accounting gimmicks?”

Background:

Newly appointed MBTA General Manager Luis Ramirez was CEO of a company named Global Power Equipment Group from July 2012 until March 20, 2015. Yesterday, WBUR reported that two months after Ramirez departed, the firm had to notify the SEC that its financial statements for 2014 "should not be relied upon because of accounting errors." When the company refiled its financial statements, they revealed additional accounting errors for the three years Ramirez was CEO.

“In its original filing, Global Power Equipment Group reported a net income of $11 million for 2014, the final complete business year Ramirez served as CEO,” WBUR reported. “The company's restated SEC filings show that in 2014, it actually had a net loss of $47 million. Global Power Equipment Group originally overstated its 2014 net income by 524 percent.”

The SEC is now investigating Global Power Equipment Group, and a group of investors is suing Ramirez and the company.

Governor Baker cited Ramirez’s “turnaround experience” when announcing his hiring, and “transit expert was not high on our priority list” for a new General Manager, according to Transportation Secretary Stephanie Pollack.

Baker-Polito Administration Awards $545,000 Grant to Franklin County Sheriff’s Department

Baker-Polito Administration Awards $545,000 Grant to Franklin County Sheriff’s Department

Funding Will Assist in Installation of a 436kW Solar Canopy

BOSTON – August 17, 2017– The Baker-Polito Administration today awarded a $545,000 grant to the Franklin County Sheriff’s Department to support the installation of a 436kW solar canopy at the Franklin County Jail and House of Correction in Greenfield. This grant marks the seventh solar canopy grant awarded by the Leading by Example State Fleet Efficiency grant program from the Department of Energy Resources (DOER).

“Massachusetts is a national leader in solar energy, with over 70,000 completed solar projects statewide,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “Our Administration is proud to partner with Sheriff Donelan and the Franklin County Sheriff’s Department to reduce the department’s energy use and reinvest the savings in critical functions.”

“The Commonwealth’s state, regional, and local governments continue to lead by example in adopting clean energy at their facilities,” said Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito.  “The solar canopy funded through this grant, paired with the sheriff department’s additional energy conservation efforts, is vital for building a cleaner, more resilient energy future for the county and state.”

The solar canopy installation is part of a comprehensive Accelerated Energy Program (AEP) project managed by the Division of Capital Asset Management and Maintenance (DCAMM), which includes over 20 additional energy and water conservation measures.  The 436 kW solar canopy is expected to produce approximately 439,000 kWh of electricity each year, enough to offset 26% of the facility’s consumption and save approximately $92,000 in annual energy costs.  The project also includes two Level II Dual-head EV Charging stations as well as pre-wiring for additional three dual head stations to be added in the future.  In addition to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and lowering the facility’s electricity costs, the solar canopy will also provide shade and shelter from the elements for all visitors and staff. 

“The Department of Energy Resource’s Leading by Example program gives our partners across Massachusetts the tools they need to reduce their energy consumption and carbon emissions,” said Secretary of Energy and Environmental Affairs Matthew Beaton. “The Baker-Polito Administration is committed to working collaboratively to meet our ambitious Global Warming Solutions Act emissions reductions goals.”

“The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office is proud to be doing our part to reduce our carbon foot print and save the taxpayers money,” said Franklin County Sheriff Christopher Donelan. “Doing this project here reminds us all that reversing global warming is everyone’s responsibility, even a public safety agency.” 

The 2015 Leading by Example Clean Energy Grant Program for Solar Canopies & Innovative Solar seeks to increase installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) parking canopies and innovative solar PV technologies at state facilities.  Solar Canopies provide opportunities to state facilities to generate clean renewable electricity at operating parking areas, while reducing heat absorption on parking surfaces and shading parked vehicles. Large solar PV canopy projects will also assist in meeting the energy goals of the Leading by Example Program and can substantially reduce facility energy costs.

“The benefits of this solar canopy go beyond reduced energy costs and emissions for Franklin County, offering employees and visitors alike an option to charge their electric vehicle,” said Department of Energy Resources Commissioner Judith Judson. “DOER looks forward to a continued partnership with the Franklin County Sheriff’s Department and all of our partners to increase the adoption of clean and efficient energy at government facilities.”

“This project speaks to the ongoing and strong partnership between DCAMM and DOER to contribute to Massachusetts’ leadership in renewable energy and reducing our carbon footprint, “said Division of Capital Asset Management and Maintenance Commissioner Carol Gladstone.

The program is funded by an allocation of Alternative Compliance Payment (ACP) funds. ACP funds are paid by electric retail suppliers if they have insufficient Renewable or Alternative Energy Certificates to meet their compliance obligations under the Renewable and Alternative Portfolio Standard programs.

“This is great news for the Sheriff's Department and the environment,” said Senate President Stan Rosenberg (D-Amherst). “This project can help the Sheriff balance his budget and reduce our carbon footprint which the Mayor and Administration have been working so hard to do.”

“This grant award is great news for the Franklin County Sheriff's office and the greater community,” said State Representative Paul Mark (D-Peru). “It will result in savings on energy costs in the long term and reaffirms the Commonwealth's commitment to renewable, sustainable energy as well as promoting a cleaner environment.”

The Leading by Example (LBE) program works with state agencies to meet specific target for greenhouse gas emission reductions, energy consumption reduction and renewable energy procurement. Since 2007, state agencies have made significant progress, including reducing GHG emissions by 26 percent, generating 15 percent of electricity demand from onsite renewable and combined heat and power sources, and reducing heating oil use by 78 percent. LBE results have contributed to Massachusetts being ranked for the past five years as the number one state for energy efficiency in the country by the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy (ACEEE).

Young Bostonians Celebrate Walsh's Commitment to Innovation, Economy, and Social Justice

Young Bostonians Celebrate Walsh's Commitment to Innovation, Economy, and Social Justice

Young Professionals Throughout Boston Commend Mayor Walsh for his Commitment to Creating Jobs and Building an Economy that Works for All

(Boston, MA) Wednesday, August 16, 2017 - Tonight, young professionals from all over Boston gathered at Tia’s on the Waterfront to celebrate Mayor Marty Walsh’s record of building affordable housing, creating access to higher education, and working to create an economy that uplifts everyone. Since becoming Mayor, Walsh has made it a priority to ensure young people have pathways to success. Leaders from every corner of Boston commended his work: State Representative Dan Cullinane "Time after time, Mayor Walsh has shown his commitment to all people of Boston, whether it’s filling potholes or supporting local business owners. When it comes to young people in Boston, he has put forward every tool at his disposal to ensure that we have the best startup, entrepreneurial spaces, more affordable housing, and job opportunities that anyone could ask for in a world-class city. I am grateful for his leadership and look forward to the continued work we have ahead."  Esteniolla Maitre Community activist, former BPS educator “I grew up in Boston and care deeply about its future. It's with confidence that I can say that Mayor Walsh is the best leader for our city, whether it is in considering strong learning opportunities for our children or backing young people in their pursuits to fight against racism and other injustices. I've constantly been reminded of his passion, patience, and dedication, and I look forward to his continued work throughout the neighborhoods.” State Representative Dan Hunt "Mayor Walsh has proven his support for young professionals here in the City of Boston. With young people in mind, the Mayor has built a bright future for economic innovation and job sustainability. The Mayor understands that when our young communities thrive, our city thrives. His commitment to this upcoming generation of Bostonians is unquestionable -- I am proud to stand with Mayor Walsh." Sharhea Wade Roslindale resident, assistant vice president/global ABS credit analyst at locally-based international corporation "Mayor Walsh has served all of Boston, and its millennial population, admirably. He effectively launched the Roxbury Innovation Center in the heart of the city for young people to make their business dreams become a reality. He's offering salary negotiation courses, free of charge, to women who are navigating challenging conversations in the workplace. And, he is building more affordable housing, to ensure that all who want to live in Boston can do so. Most important of all, I've seen the mayor support the Posse Foundation and several other programs that I believe in, and I can now return that support as he continues his leadership in Boston for the next four years." State Representative Adrian Madaro "Immigrant communities have always served as the portrait of Boston; the faces of the next generation of young Bostonians are representative of that. The Mayor understands that the expression of culture, especially by young people, is vital to Boston. Mayor Walsh has advocated for this since day one -- he has fought for all of Boston’s communities and I will fight for him." Kristin Phelan South End resident, founder & CEO of KP Strategies "Boston has long been defined by the energy of its people. Its people who give life and soul to a city. As a resident and business owner, I am proud to be a Bostonian under Mayor Marty Walsh's leadership. Guided by his genuine love and loyalty for the city and the people who call it home, Mayor Walsh continues to demonstrate how effective local government enhances the livability of cities.” Nick Martin South Boston resident, public affairs professional "As someone who had the pleasure of serving in Mayor Walsh's administration and continues to benefit from his leadership as a resident, I have witnessed firsthand what makes the Mayor such a unique champion for Boston. When it comes to civic engagement, he has shown an uncompromising commitment to reaching out to and learning from all residents. And at a time of political polarization across the country, I take comfort in all that Mayor Walsh is doing to bring people together around a progressive agenda that prioritizes inclusion, opportunity and a voice for all." Michael J. Nichols Fenway/Kenmore resident, chief of staff at the Rose Kennedy Greenway Conservancy "Mayor Walsh continues to reimagine Boston as an innovative, first-class city and seeks at every turn to capitalize on our city's strengths. For me, he has been a champion of affordable housing, modern development practices, parks and open spaces, multi-modal transportation, the arts community, involving young professionals more directly in civic engagement, and so much more. Further, when others have tried to regress our country through a 'divide and conquer' strategy on social issues, I have appreciated having the mayor of my city - Mayor Walsh - battling on the front lines for equality and basic human decency. I couldn't be more happy to stand with Mayor Walsh as he seeks another four years of service to the people of Boston." Hannah Cochran Beacon Hill resident, product designer at international banking company "As as a young professional woman in the tech industry, I appreciate how our Mayor and his team have continuously been at the forefront for improving women's rights in the workplace. The city of Boston attracts some of the best companies to work for, and continues to foster an environment where young professionals want to grow their careers. In addition to my full-time role in tech, I've also ran my own successful design and photography freelance company for past 4 years. Because of the great programs like Arts Boston and the Office of Women's Advancement, Boston has been a wonderful place to grow my brand and network with other small businesses in the art world." Councilor Matt O’Malley Under Mayor Walsh's leadership, Boston has continued to flourish. The mayor has been a collaborative partner in local government, fighting to make sure every Bostonian has an equal opportunity to succeed and get ahead. Whether you're a millennial or a senior, the mayor has fought hard for you over the past three years and will continue to fight for you every day. I know Boston is in good hands, and I look forward to the many more years of public service that we have ahead of us. Darrell Kelton Roxbury resident, owner of Leash Dog Care “As a small business owner, I have been thoroughly impressed with how much support I continue to receive from the Walsh Administration. I remember the day I handed the mayor my business card and really appreciated how personable and attentive he was. He really cares about the people of Boston, and that has shown in his efforts to launch small business centers across the city.” Ian Sutherland Roxbury resident, junior creative associate at Libretto "Mayor Walsh is an enormous voice of support for millennials in Boston. SPARK Boston's civic engagement opportunities encouraged my friends and I to participate and vote on many vital city issues, especially on topics concerning young professionals. I credit the Mayor's advocacy for millennials as the reason many of my peers and I stayed to work in Boston after graduating college this year."