波士頓華埠公園7/24下午2點唱歌活動 7/25陳耀祥太極健身運動

 Join the Greenway Conservancy & Boston Children's Chorus at We Sing: Chinatown this Saturday, July 24 at 2p! We invite community members of all ages and skill levels to join in singing, games, prizes, and socializing at Chin Park on The Greenway.

Can't make it this weekend? We Sing: Chinatown will return on the Chinatown Gate on August 15 at 2p. 

MAYOR JANEY ANNOUNCES FIRST CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT UNDER CITY’S NEW SUPPLIER DIVERSITY PROGRAM

 

MAYOR JANEY ANNOUNCES FIRST CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT UNDER CITY’S NEW SUPPLIER DIVERSITY PROGRAM Malcolm X Park project first to have contract-specific goals

BOSTON - Friday, July 23, 2021 - Mayor Kim Janey today announced the release of the bid package for the Improvements to Malcolm X Park in Roxbury as the first contract planned for the City’s new supplier diversity program. Building on Mayor Janey’s commitment to addressing equity in City contracting, the Equity and Inclusion Cabinet and the Boston Parks and Recreation Department will pilot participation goals for minority-owned businesses (MBEs) and women-owned businesses (WBEs) with the Malcolm X Park Improvement Project. The pilot will increase the number of contracts awarded to diverse businesses for planned renovations to the park including the basketball courts, tennis courts, playgrounds, and turf field, among many other improvements. The total construction budget is $7.7 million. “Engaging with diverse contractors can have a powerful impact on our local economy,” said Mayor Janey. “The Malcolm X Park Improvement Project pilot seeks to quantify that impact and improve transparency in the procurement process, as we address the dire need for investment in Boston-based businesses owned by women and people of color. I am proud to work with the City of Boston Equity and Inclusion Cabinet, as well as the Boston Parks and Recreation Department, to expand access for entrepreneurs who are traditionally overlooked.” These actions build on the City of Boston's commitments announced in February 2021 that followed the completion of a disparity study, including an Executive Order designed to support equitable procurement policies. The Executive Order recognizes the results of the disparity study and established spending goals of 25% for WBEs and MBEs, as well as establishment of a Supplier Diversity Plan to support diverse procurement. “The Malcolm X Park project will revitalize a treasured community resource while also providing economic opportunities for area businesses owned by people of color and women,” said Celina Barrios-Millner, Chief of Equity and Inclusion. “We appreciate the hard work of the Parks Department to make this pilot possible, and have established a Supplier Diversity Program that will create opportunities for diverse contractors on all types of City contracts moving forward.”  The City has set an MBE goal of 2.4% and a WBE goal of 4.8% of the total budget for this project based on the availability of MBEs and WBEs for the work required for the renovations. Bidders must either achieve the goals through subcontracting commitments with MBEs and WBEs, or provide documentation with their bids specifically demonstrating good faith efforts undertaken to achieve the goals. Bidders must achieve both goals, as well as the City’s Boston Jobs Resident Policy goals.  “We are grateful for Mayor Janey’s and the Equity Cabinet’s leadership in reducing barriers for City suppliers,” said Parks and Recreation Department Commissioner Ryan Woods. “Requiring bidders to thoughtfully engage all available subcontractors will result in a high quality, diverse pool of companies on the project team and a better park project overall.” The type of contracts required for the project include concrete and asphalt installation, playground equipment installation, electrical, plumbing, earthwork and grading, arborist and tree work, planting, and signage. WBEs and MBEs in these fields can access a list of potential bidders who have requested a copy of the plan, and reach out to them directly to pitch their services. Subcontractors are also encouraged to get certified as WBEs or MBEs. Certified contractors will be included in a list of diverse businesses that City of Boston and external organizations use for recruitment. The construction bid (IFB) was released on Monday, July 19 and bids are due by August 19, 2021, at 2:00 p.m. Bids and specifications are available to be picked up at 1010 Massachusetts Avenue, 3rd floor. No appointment is necessary. For an up to date list of plan holders or for any questions please contact Lauren Bryant by email at lauren.bryant@boston.gov or by phone at 617-961-3019. Prospective bidders are highly encouraged to attend a virtual pre-bid conference on Tuesday, July 27, 2021, at 11:00 a.m. Boston time. To attend, use the video call link https://meet.google.com/nfq-gjia-twr or dial 319-820-2332 PIN: ‪158 648 917#. ABOUT THE PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT The Parks and Recreation Department creates and maintains clean, green, safe, and accessible public parks and open space throughout Boston. The department is responsible for 217 parks, playgrounds and athletic fields, two golf courses, 65 squares, 17 fountains, 75 game courts, 16 historic and three active cemeteries, urban wilds, four High School athletic fields, and approximately 125,000 trees, all covering 2,346 acres, 1,000 of which comprise the historic Emerald Necklace. Parks and Recreation is also responsible for more than 35,000 street trees.  ABOUT THE EQUITY CABINET The Equity Office works to embed equity and racial justice into all City planning and operations. The Office focuses on dismantling systemic barriers to achieve racial, gender, health and socio-economic equality and works to ensure that an equity lens is placed on all programs, policies, and practices of local government. The Cabinet consists of numerous departments and agencies, including: Resilience and Racial Equity, Human Rights Commission, Women’s Advancement, Immigrant Advancement, Language and Communication Access, and the Economic Mobility Lab. The cabinet also oversees the Boston Resident Jobs Policy and the Supplier Diversity Program.

吳弭當市長支持者再添一人 麻州眾議員Tommy Vitolo送上橄欖枝

 State Representative Tommy Vitolo Endorses Michelle Wu for Mayor

Boston, MA - Today, State Representative Tommy Vitolo announced his support and endorsement of Michelle Wu for Mayor of Boston. Representative Vitolo represents the 15th Norfolk District which covers the town of Brookline. He serves as Vice Chair of the Joint Committee of Election Laws.

 Representative Vitolo said: "I’m proud to endorse my friend Michelle Wu to be the next mayor of Boston. Michelle’s clear vision and regional collaboration has already made her a leading voice across the Commonwealth on the issues we both champion—a transportation system that works for everyone, housing affordability, and climate justice. Her election as mayor will be transformative for Boston and its neighbors."

 “I am so grateful to be endorsed by Representative Tommy Vitolo. He’s been a partner on the climate, housing and transportation justice issues across our region—and a fellow working parent advocating with a sense of urgency for all our families to thrive,” said Michelle Wu. 

 Representative Vitolo and Councilor Wu have previously teamed up to oppose MBTA fare hikes, call for transit equity, and push for climate justice.

 Representative Vitolo has served Brookline since November 2018 and is currently a member of the House Committee on Steering, Policy and Scheduling, Joint Committee on Elder Affairs, and Joint Committee on Tourism, Arts and Cultural Development. He has long been an advocate for environmental justice and energy efficiency, fighting against coal power plants and advocating for wind turbines and solar farms. Recently, he sponsored many bills including H.953, to ensure charter school transparency and public accountability and H.2390, to prohibit state construction or renovation of fossil fuel heating systems.

 Representative Vitolo’s endorsement adds to the Michelle for Mayor campaign’s enthusiastic coalition of multigenerational, multicultural grassroots supporters including leaders Senator Elizabeth Warren, Boston City Councilor Lydia Edwards, State Senator and Assistant Majority Leader Sal DiDomenico, former State Representative and Assistant Majority Leader Byron Rushing; unions Teamsters Local 25, New England Joint Board of Unite Here!, Alliance of Unions at the MBTA, MBTA Inspectors Union Local 600, OPEIU Local 453; environmental organizations Sunrise Boston, Sierra Club, the Environmental League of Massachusetts, 350 Mass Action; Progressive West Roxbury/Roslindale; Ward 4 Democrats; Ward 5 Democrats; and fellow municipal elected officials from across Greater Boston and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. For all of Michelle for Boston’s endorsements, visit michelleforboston.com/endorsements. 

Kim Janey 任命2西語裔家長進學校委員會

MAYOR JANEY NAMES LORENA LOPERA AND RAFAELA POLANCO GARCIA TO BOSTON SCHOOL COMMITTEE  Two new members sworn-in to serve Boston’s diverse public school district   BOSTON - Thursday, July 22, 2021: Today, Mayor Kim Janey announced the appointment of Rafaela Polanco Garcia and Lorena Lopera to the Boston School Committee. The move follows her commitment in June to fill two vacancies and move the committee forward with greater equity, opportunity and accountability. Polanco Garcia is a Boston Public Schools (BPS) parent and serves as Director of Parent Engagement and Organizing at St. Stephen’s Youth Programs. Lopera is also a BPS parent and Executive Director of Latinos for Education. Mayor Janey selected Polanco Garcia and Lopera from a slate of candidates presented by the Boston School Committee Nominating Panel, which worked independently to conduct the public application and interview process that attracted 23 applicants. Both women were sworn-in by Boston City Clerk Maureen Feeney right before the mayor’s announcement.   “Ms. Polanco Garcia and Ms. Lopera bring incredible depth of knowledge and lived experience to the Boston School Committee,” said Mayor Janey. “I am thrilled to appoint these talented new committee members, who represent so many of the residents in our city. They will both help to fill the pages to this new chapter of equity and opportunity for Boston Public Schools students and families.”  “On behalf of the school committee, I am pleased to welcome Ms. Rafaela Polanco Garcia and Ms. Lorena Lopera as our newest colleagues and thank them both for their commitment to the children and families of Boston and to serving on this committee,” said Boston School Committee Chair Jeri Robinson. “As both parents in the Boston Public Schools and community activists, their voice and expertise will be welcome additions as we work to continue to create true involvement of the multicultural communities across the city and commend Mayor Janey for their appointment.”  “I am thrilled to welcome Ms. Lopera and Ms. Polanco Garcia as our newest members on the Boston School Committee. In the last year, the Committee and I have worked together to pass important policies around student information sharing, retention, grading, graduation standards, and exam school admissions,” said Boston Public Schools Superintendent Brenda Cassellius. “We remain committed to closing opportunity gaps and examining current and future BPS policies through an antiracist lens to advance student outcomes. I know that both Ms. Lopera and Ms. Polanco Garcia join us with the professional experience and community perspective necessary to contribute positively and effectively to our shared goals of equity, opportunity and excellence for every BPS student.”  Polanco Garcia is an immigrant who lives in public housing in South Boston and has a background in law and bilingual advocacy. Her activism on behalf of the Latinx community in education includes working on the No on 2 campaign in 2016, helping to pass a sanctuary schools resolution, and passing the Student Opportunity Act. Since 2015, she has served as the Director of Parent Engagement and Organizing at St. Stephen’s Youth Programs in the South End.   “As an Immigrant from the Dominican Republic, it is a great honor for me to represent English Language Learner families on the Boston School Committee,” said Polanco Garcia. “As a single mother of a Boston Public Schools student, I feel committed to my community. I know that many families will be able to identify with me and together we will be a voice in the school district.”  Lopera is a Jamaica Plain resident and veteran of local organizations focused on expanding educational access for Latinx youth and students of color, including Roxbury-based Sociedad Latina, La Vida, Inc., and Building Excellent Schools, as well as national organizations such as City Year and the Posse Foundation. Most recently, she was the Executive Director at Latinos for Education, New England, the first Latino-founded and led national organization dedicated solely to creating leadership pathways for Latinos in education. She is currently co-chair of the Hurley K-8 School Site Council.  “My own educational experience and my experience as a Boston Public Schools parent is what will guide my decisions on the Boston School Committee,” said Lopera. “I’m honored by this opportunity, and ready to roll up my sleeves to co-design solutions with families, educators, and community members so all students within Boston can succeed.”  In addition to the member appointments, Mayor Janey announced plans to extend Racial Equity and Leadership (REAL) training to all members of the Boston School Committee.   “REAL training, which is also being provided to all City of Boston staff, will be a first step toward setting new rules of engagement among School Committee members, families and all those with a stake in our schools,” said Janey.  More than 40 percent of Boston Public Schools students identify as Latinx, while approximately 10 percent of enrolled students live in Boston Housing Authority developments. Mayor Janey’s appointments expand representation for these communities and were met with enthusiasm and support from community stakeholders.  “I am thrilled to learn about Mayor Janey’s selection of Lorena Lopera and Rafaela Polanco Garcia as members of the Boston School Committee,” said Dr. Vanessa Calderón-Rosada, chief executive officer of Inquilinos Boricuas en Acción, a corporation dedicated to empowering individuals and community development. “Both Lorena and Rafaela bring an unwavering commitment to equity in Boston Public Schools, both as parents and as advocates; and as immigrants, both of them will bring an important perspective to the School Committee deliberations. I am grateful to Mayor Janey for bringing these two strong Latina leaders to the Committee!”  "These are two very thoughtful choices by Acting Mayor Janey that ensure that new voices and new perspectives are represented on the School Committee,” said John Riordan, the Boston Municipal Research Bureau representative on the School Committee Nominating Panel. “In Ms. Polanco Garcia, she’s selected a BPS parent who has been a champion of parent engagement and has the ability to reach parents who may not feel connected to the school system. In Ms. Lopera, she’s selected a BPS parent and longtime advocate who will bring important experience in pushing the school system to make continued improvements."   “I am thrilled by Mayor Janey's nominations of Rafaela Polanco Garcia and Lorena Lopera to the Boston School Committee. Both are dedicated Latina leaders who are parents with young children in BPS, and have been long-standing advocates for educator diversity and education equity and excellence,” said Betty Francisco, Chief Legal Advisor for Compass Working Capital, a Non-profit that assists low-income families with finances. “Rafaela reflects the unique experience of immigrant families who depend on our school system for culturally and linguistically competent services. Through her work at Latinos for Education, Lorena has been a leading voice on educator diversity and leadership development. They make a powerful combination and will bring important perspectives that reflect the diversity of the Latino families in BPS.”    “I am ecstatic about the news of Lorena Lopera and Rafaela Polanco Garcia ascending to the Boston School Committee, and I imagine Boston’s Latino community rejoices, as well,” said Samuel Acevedo, executive director of the Boston Higher Education Resource Center. “The loss of Alex Oliver-Dávila and Lorna Rivera from the BSC was inestimable. But succeeding them are a set of Latinas who are both BPS parents, and have both been – for years - tireless advocates for our community’s children. Lorena y Rafaela: Dios las bendiga. ¡Les deseamos todo éxito!”  The new members will attend their first School Committee meeting on August 4, 2021.

Baker-Polito Administration Announces $4 Million to Support Trail Improvements Across the Commonwealth

Baker-Polito Administration Announces $4 Million to Support Trail Improvements Across the Commonwealth

MassTrails Program Funding 52 Projects to Enhance Massachusetts’ Trail Network

 

SANDWICH – Building on efforts to enhance access to natural resources and recreational opportunities for residents across the Commonwealth, the Baker-Polito Administration today announced nearly $4 million in grant funding to support 52 trail projects across the Commonwealth as part of the MassTrails Grant Program. The grants will assist the construction, maintenance, and improvements for a variety of public trails across the Commonwealth, including hiking trails, bikeways, and shared-use paths. The announcement was made by Governor Charlie Baker and Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito, who joined Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Kathleen Theoharides, Department of Transportation Secretary Jamey Tesler, Department of Conservation and Recreation Commissioner Jim Montgomery, and state and local officials at the Army Corps of Engineers Cape Cod Canal Visitors Center in Sandwich.

 

“Massachusetts has a vast network of public trails which connect communities and regions together, providing recreation, exercise, and tremendous access to the natural world, and this funding offers an excellent opportunity to continue building and expanding that network and support new opportunities for outdoor recreation,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “We continue to see residents taking a greater interest in the great outdoors, and through our plan to put federal relief funding to immediate use in cities and towns across the Commonwealth, our Administration is proposing to direct $100 million in parks and open spaces, including the expansion of Massachusetts’ long distance trail network.”

 

“Trails are important community resources that improve quality of life by offering access to parks, reservations, forests, and beaches throughout the Commonwealth,” said Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito. “The MassTrails Grant Program is providing critical funds for projects from the Berkshires to Cape Cod, enabling our local partners to continue their efforts to improve trail infrastructure by creating new segments and enhancing existing trails for the public to enjoy.” 

 

The MassTrails Grant Program supports projects that build public-private partnerships to maintain and improve existing trails and construct new ones across the state. This year’s projects will help communities address trail drainage, develop new trails, expand universal access, support the construction of boardwalks and bridges, design and install new signage, acquire new land for trails, and expand and maintain biking trails.

 

“We’ve seen an explosion of interest in the great outdoors throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, with residents and families across the Commonwealth exploring our parks, trail networks, and open spaces,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Kathleen Theoharides. “These MassTrails projects are just one example of the significant investments that could be made to expand and improve access to outdoor recreation and open space through the Administration’s federal ARPA spending proposal, especially for residents in communities hit hard by the pandemic.”

 

“MassTrails grants support the Baker-Polito Administration’s commitment to providing a safe and equitable transportation network to advance the Commonwealth’s transit, economic, climate and public health goals,” said Acting Transportation Secretary and CEO Jamey Tesler. “Grant money will go toward placemaking projects which offer new opportunities for economic development and connection in downtowns or community centers – including new and expanded outdoor spaces for dining, gathering and mobility.”

 

The MassTrails Grant Program is funded through the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation’s (DCR) capital budget, and from the motor fuel excise tax on off-road vehicles, including ATVs and snowmobiles, which is provided by the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Federal Surface Transportation Act, in coordination with the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT).

 

“The Department of Conservation and Recreation is proud to be the steward of nearly half-a-million acres of public land that encompass hundreds of trails stretching for thousands of miles,” said DCR Commissioner Jim Montgomery. “The Baker-Polito Administration actively seeks to foster strong relationships between the state, local leaders, and organizations through programs and initiatives like the MassTrails Grant Program to further advance priorities that have positive impacts on local communities and regions.”

 

All MassTrails Grant Program applications are reviewed in consultation with an inter-agency MassTrails Team and the Massachusetts Recreational Trails Advisory Board (MARTAB). The program provides important funding for project development, design, and construction of shared-use pathways, which facilitate connections to where people live, work, and recreate. These funds are focused on construction and maintenance of recreational trails of all types and uses, including both motorized and non-motorized activities, such as hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, cross-country skiing, paddling, snowmobiling, and recreational off-highway vehicle riding. 

   

“Sandwich has been working for more than a decade to design and construct a shared use pedestrian path along Service Road from Exit 2 off the mid-Cape highway to the Barnstable town line,” said Sandwich Town Manager George Dunham. “This path will ultimately connect to the Cape Cod Rail Trail and to the Cape Cod Canal. Our MassTrails grant will help us plan the most difficult section connecting the Canal pedestrian path to Route 130 and will eventually allow for safe, pedestrian access from the Cape Cod Canal to Provincetown. We can’t thank the Department of Conservation & Recreation and the Governor’s Office enough for their support and funding.”

 

“I am thrilled to learn that the Town of Sandwich has been selected as a recipient of a 2021 MassTrails grant,” said State Representative Steven Xiarhos (R- Barnstable). “The ability to be able to safely walk, run, bike, and exercise outdoors is so important; particularly after the last year when it was difficult for many to leave their homes. I am grateful to the Baker-Polito Administration and the Department of Conservation and Recreation for including our community in this round of grants.” 

 

“With this round of MassTrails grants, my communities will be able to continue to develop our local trail system and allow more of our residents to participate actively in the outdoors while also opening up new areas for the public to enjoy,” said State Senator Susan L. Moran  (D-Falmouth). “This funding is vital to using a shared path from Route 130 to Cape Cod Canal Bikeway that will allow bikers and walkers to use this trail in a safe way. Thank you to the Town of Sandwich and the Sandwich Bikeways & Pedestrian Committee for their tireless work and who have advocated to make this a reality.”

 

This year’s MassTrails Grant projects are located in the following municipalities: Adams, Arlington, Athol, Barre, Becket, Belchertown, Bernardston, Brewster, Buckland, Colrain, East Boston, Easton, Everett, Fall River, Foxborough, Franklin, Freetown, Gardner, Gill, Granville, Great Barrington, Hardwick, Harvard, Hawley, Haydenville, Holden, Hubbardston, Lakeville, Lawrence, Lee, Leicester, Lenox, Leyden, Malden, Medford, Medway, Middleton, North Adams, North Brookfield, Northampton, Norwell, Orange, Pittsfield, Plainfield, Sandisfield, Sandwich, Savoy, Shrewsbury, Southampton, Springfield, Sturbridge, Sunderland, Templeton, Ware, Washington, Westborough, Westfield, Westford, Williamsburg, Windsor, Winthrop, Woburn, Worcester, Wrentham. For a full list and brief description of each of the 52 projects receiving funding, please visit the MassTrails Grants webpage. 

 

In June 2021, the Baker-Polito Administration re-filed its plan to immediately put to use part of Commonwealth’s direct federal aid from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) to support key priorities including housing and homeownership, economic development and local downtowns, job training and workforce development, health care, and infrastructure. As part of the Administration’s proposal to jump-start the Commonwealth’s economic recovery and support residents hardest-hit by COVID-19, such as lower-wage workers and communities of color, Governor Baker would direct $900 million to key energy and environmental initiatives, including $100 million for parks, recreation, and open spaces. These funds would support investments in public lands, as well as lands specifically conserved for public access including parks, lakes, rivers, trails, beaches, fishing piers, boat ramps, and other waterways. Funding would be dedicated to projects that expand, enhance, and modernize the Commonwealth’s park facilities to steward and conserve natural resources, and to improve the resilience of natural and working lands, plants, and wildlife in the Commonwealth.

國際領袖基金會企業與領袖高峰會7/24網上舉行

 

國際領袖基金會企業與領袖高峰會網上舉行

團結亞裔社區  共同面對挑戰  

            (國際領袖基金會訊) 國際領袖基金會(ILF)將於7月24日(週六)，美東時間下午1點(美西時間早上10點)在網上舉辦「2021 國際領袖基金會企業與領袖高峰會」，邀請美國貿易代表戴琦等9名政商界領袖與出席者交流。

            今年的這國際領袖基金會企業與領袖高峰會，安排有3名主講人，包括新任美國貿易代表戴琦(Katherine Tai)，聯邦眾議員趙美心(Judy Chu)，孟昭文(Grace Meng)。兩場爐邊晤談，分別針對政界，商界。政界這場以「輔導下一代公民領袖(Mentoring the Next Generation of Civic Leaders)」為主題，邀請到前任交通部長趙小蘭(Elaine L Chao)，加州聯邦眾議員Young Kim，加州聯邦眾議員Michelle Steel。商界這場以「培養下一代企業領袖(Cultivating the Next Generation of Business Leader)」為主題，邀請到Vizio創辦人王蔚(William Wang)，徐氏教育基金創辦人徐紹欽(Dr. Paul Hsu)，卓越通訊(Superior Communications)創辦人兼執行長陳永生(Soloman Chen)。

            國際領袖基金會執行長董繼玲表示，礙於新冠病毒疫情仍未全消，這每年一度的領袖與企業會議改為網上舉行，應邀與談的嘉賓們，全是亞裔政商界菁英。為在疫情期間也鼓勵近一年來備受美國境內仇恨氛圍威脅的亞裔社區，該會決定開放這一會議，歡迎各界參加。報名可上網 bit.ly/2USubiF。

ABOUT ILF ﹣國際領袖基金會 (International Leadership Foundation) 是全美最著名的青年領袖人才訓練機構，以促進美國及亞太地區各項國際交流活動，培育國際青年政經領袖為宗旨的非營利性組織。過去十多年來，本會每年選送150多名美國亞裔優秀學生，進美國聯邦政府，各行政部門正式實習，以了解美國國會的實際運作， 並參加政府公共政策訓練課程，以培育國際青年學生，使他們具備更優秀的創造力、執行力、競爭力與國際觀。

波士頓市長選戰開始比誰有更多背書支持 波市議員Lydia Edward支持吳弭

波士頓市第一區市議員Lydia Edwards公開站台，支持吳弭當下一屆
波士頓市長。(周菊子攝)

             (Boston Orange周菊子綜合報導) 波士頓的市長選舉，最開始比籌款額，後來比出售商品，現在正比著背書支持。尤其是在民調中領先的吳弭(Michelle Wu)和波士頓代市長Kim Janey這兩天更是你來我往，輪著宣佈新背書支持者。。

             吳弭今(21)早去到了東波士頓海邊，宣佈波士頓市第一區市議員Lydia Edwards支持她當市長。接著下午再宣佈，民主黨波士頓黨部第五區決定背書支持她。

Lydia Edwards在東波士頓海邊宣佈支持吳弭。
(周菊子攝)

吳弭的請出Edwards背書支持，有點”你有，我也有”的回應味道，因為波士頓代市長Kim Janey在7月18日，才宣佈波士頓市的拉丁裔政治家族，曾任波士頓市議員的麻州遺囑認證官Fleix D. Arroyo和他現任波士頓市議員的兒子Richardo Arroyo，聯袂支持她。

             Arroyo家族還有一位Felix G. Arroyo也曾經擔任波士頓市議員，一度和吳弭共事，後來還角逐市長，但初選落敗，加入支持馬丁華殊(Martin Walsh)行列，之後擠身內閣，成為波士頓市健康及人民服務長，但2017年時，因為一宗性騷擾案，黯然下台。

吳弭、Lydia   Edwards互相支持。
(周菊子攝)

             7月19日，Kim Janey再宣佈，麻州眾議員(薩福克第15區)Nika Elugardo背書支持她，而吳弭這天也宣佈，麻州眾議員(安多福區)Tram Nguyen支持她。

             7月20日，Kim Janey又宣佈，東波士頓有工會328JSEIU，以及UFCW1445支持她。

7月21日的今日，吳弭的競選陣營在發出市議員Edwards和波士頓民主黨第五區背書支持的新聞稿時，特地詳列包括個人及組織，已經有不下16個背書支持，其中有不下5個工會，包括卡車司機本地25聯盟(unions Teamsters Local 25)，新英格蘭”在這兒團結(United Here!)”聯合委員會，MBTA工會聯盟( Alliance of Unions at the MBTA)，MBTA稽查員本地600工會(MBTA Inspectors Union Local 600)，辦公室及專業人員國際工會本地453分會(OPEIU Local 453)。

Kim Janey宣佈工會328JSEIU，以及UFCW1445支持她。
(推特截圖)

在今日的支持吳弭當市長宣佈會中，目前在波士頓市議會中擔任房屋及政府營運委員會主席，去年競選連任時得票率高逾90%，今年在無競爭對手下將同額當選的波士頓市議員Lydia Edward直言，她和吳弭合作無間，在和Airbnb大戰，限制短租等等法案上，都有令人喜悅的成績，她十分尊重吳弭的堅韌，同理心、領導力，在追求環保，經濟等各方面的正義、公平上的努力。她還透露，當年參選市議員，曾遭遇挫折，只有吳弭打電話給她，安慰、支持。今年的市長選舉，她問她母親該支持誰時，她母親也毫不猶豫地說那個”吳女孩(That Wu girl)”。

民主黨波士頓黨部第五區黨委會在20日晚上以壓倒性票數通過，支持吳弭當波士頓市長。第五區黨委會稱吳弭不僅能解決問題，還有遠見，具備處理波士頓市所面對大挑戰的能力，他們相信吳弭能夠改變波士頓市。

在以往的市長選舉中，所有的波士頓市議員每逢有人問起支持誰時，幾乎無一例外的會拒絕回答，或稱不宜明說，今年卻不但公開表態，更在離初選還有將近2個月時，就已選邊站，在在印證著，今年這參選人幾乎清一色是有色人種的選舉，就是不一樣。

Statement from MassDems Chair Gus Bickford on Charlie Baker’s Attendance at Republican Governors Association Retreat

Statement from MassDems Chair Gus Bickford on Charlie Baker’s Attendance at Republican Governors Association Retreat

This week, Charlie Baker left Karyn Polito in charge of Massachusetts so that he could travel to Aspen and strategize with extremist Republican Governors at a RGA conference. The secretive meeting was held to support the reelection efforts of far-right Republicans, like Florida’s Ron DeSantis, also in attendance. Below is a statement from MassDems Chair Gus Bickford.

“The Republican Governors Association spent $17 million to support Charlie Baker’s candidacy, and now he’s returning the favor by helping re-elect his colleagues who believe the Big Lie that the election was stolen, who deny science and dismiss public health recommendations, who work overtime to make it harder to vote in their state. Baker isn’t just a participant at the RGA conference, he’s on its Executive Committee with other Republicans like Kristi Noem, who brags about her failure to heed COVID precautions, turning South Dakota into a COVID hotspot, and Greg Abbott, who’s infamous for forcing Democrats to leave Texas to prevent the passage of some of the harshest voting restrictions in the country. Baker’s leadership and support of the RGA helps fund the reelection efforts of people like Noem, Abbott and Trump-ally Ron DeSantis, who joined Baker in Aspen this week. Try as he might, Baker can’t hide that he’s backing up the most extreme Republican governors in the country. Pushing the Big Lie, denying science, and restricting voting rights have become the pillars of the Republican Party--and these are Charlie Baker’s people.”

MAYOR JANEY ANNOUNCES FUNDING AWARDS FOR DIGITAL EQUITY INITIATIVES ACROSS THE CITY OF BOSTON

MAYOR JANEY ANNOUNCES FUNDING AWARDS FOR DIGITAL EQUITY INITIATIVES ACROSS THE CITY OF BOSTON The Digital Equity Fund will support 19 organizations with nearly $500,000

 

BOSTON - Tuesday, July 20, 2021 - Mayor Kim Janey announced today that 19 Boston nonprofit organizations will receive $478,900 in grants through the City of Boston’s Digital Equity Fund. The Digital Equity Fund provides support to community-based organizations that help Boston residents digitally participate in educational, economic and civic opportunities, which are increasingly reliant on technology.   “Over the past 16 months, the online experience has shifted from a convenience to a necessity in our everyday lives,” said Mayor Kim Janey. “I am proud to support 19 community organizations who are helping make digital access more equitable across our neighborhoods. Connecting Boston residents with technology tools, access, and training is critical to achieving our city’s equitable recovery, reopening and renewal.”  Digital Equity Fund awards range from $5,000 to $35,000 to support programming across a variety of Boston neighborhoods and communities. Boston-based nonprofit organizations serving Boston residents and neighborhoods disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic were prioritized in the funding, including the neighborhoods of East Boston, Dorchester, Roxbury, Mattapan, Roslindale and Hyde Park. Focus was given to organizations serving older adults, persons with disabilities, English for speakers of other languages (ESOL) or English Language Learner (ELL) students, residents of public housing or rental voucher holders, and/or adult residents who have lost employment due to the COVID-19 pandemic.   “The digital divide is fundamentally a social determinant of health for people with disabilities,” shared Susan Smith, Director of Operations and Development from the Boston Center for Independent Living. “We will be providing not only hotspots and laptops, but adaptive technology essential to using this technology. It is essential to break down various barriers to integration to today’s intensely technology-driven universe.”   “For immigrants, 21st century digital skills are as important as English skills if they want to attain economic self-sufficiency,” shared Mike Oliver, the Director of St. Marks. “Our project will help them on this path."   "We have been serving the community since 1775 and we are excited to expand our services,” said Justin A. Petty, Senior Grand Warden of the MW Prince Hall Grand Lodge. “Now, we will be able to offer online and technology training for seniors so that they are not left behind in this post-COVID digital world.“   The City of Boston's Broadband and Digital Equity efforts improve access to affordable and reliable high-speed Internet for households and businesses, expand the availability of high-speed Internet in public places, and facilitate ease of access to up-to-date digital tools. The Boston Equity Office joined with the City’s Department of Innovation & Technology and the Age-Strong Commission to support ways through the the Digital Equity Fund to build individual and community capacity for:  ·    Using the Internet, digital skills, and digital tools to pursue professional, educational, and civic endeavors; ·    Engaging with the Internet safely; ·    Developing needs-responsive, community-driven digital skills-building opportunities; ·    Increasing broadband adoption among Bostonians who do not subscribe to this service in the home.  The following grants were announced this week:  Allston Brighton Community Development Corporation: Allston Brighton Community Development Corporation will use the funding to offer in-person technology education courses in English and Spanish for older Bostonians who live in the organization’s affordable rental portfolio. The organization will additionally provide participants with a Chromebook and other supplies after completing the course.  Boston Center for Independent Living: The Boston Center for Independent Living will use the funding to provide 150 persons with disabilities with key technology to facilitate their use of laptops, PCs, and tablets. Hotspots will be provided to ensure Internet connections and adaptive equipment will be purchased to ensure a person’s digital devices are usable by them. The project will serve residents of Dorchester, Mid-Dorchester, Roxbury, and Mattapan.   Boston Higher Education Resource Center: The Boston HIgher Education Resource Center will use the funding to increase high school and college English Language Learner (ELL) students’ access to personal computer devices as well as provide training to these students in order for them to make the best use of these devices towards their education and career goals. This programming will take place at the organization’s Boston Public Schools partner schools including English High School, East Boston High School, Jeremiah E Burke High School, Margarita Muñiz Academy, as well as through our Community-based (after school) program at our Roxbury/South End site.  Boston Project Ministries: The Boston Project Ministries will use the funding to implement a user-centered tool to help seniors connect civically and socially through digital platforms.  Castle Square Tenants’ Organization: Castle Square Tenants’ Organization will use the funding to build digital skills among Castle Square’s senior residents and elder Board Members of the Castle Square Tenants Organization (CSTO) by hosting a daily drop-in class and online chats that offer both digital skills demos and informal Q&A sessions.   Central Boston Elder Services: Central Boston Elder Services will use the funding to support low-income, elderly Roxbury residents by providing tablets, training, ongoing end-user support, and internet access. Participants will learn how to access the internet, set up email accounts, and how to participate in virtual meetings to help reduce isolation and learn about programs and community resources.  Center for Community Health Education Research and Service: The Center for Community Health Education Research and Service will use the funding to improve older African American/Black and Latinx (AA/BL) adults self-management of diabetes by increasing their self-efficacy in using technology. The proposal seeks to engage high school students (juniors and seniors) in training to become certified nursing assistants (CNAs) to help elders living independently to self-manage their diabetes.   Codman Square Neighborhood Development Corporation (CSNDC): The Codman Square Neighborhood Development Corporation will use the funding to expand existing workforce training programs (e.g. the Green Infrastructure certification program) in Dorchester and expand Codman Square’s ability to offer hybrid training opportunities.  East Boston Community Council: The East Boston Community Council will use the funding to support English Language Learning (ELL) students and their families by providing internet services at home and internet training, along with tablets for students in need.   Ethos: Ethos will use the funding to address the challenges of social isolation among seniors in Boston, both during and beyond COVID-19, through innovation in information delivery and improved technology access.  Found in Translation: Found in Translation will use the funding to support students and alumni in Dorchester’s Found in Translation program by providing the equipment and technology literacy training necessary to partake in a medical interpreting certificate training course and in the interpreting profession more generally.  Harvard Street Neighborhood Health Center, Inc.: Harvard Street Neighborhood Health Center will use the funding to facilitate telehealth access in Dorchester, Mattapan, and Roxbury by providing the equipment and training residents need to engage. The project seeks to provide cell phones and entry-level laptops for participants alongside technology training and a mobile application to overcome language, cultural, and age-related barriers.  Mothers for Justice and Equality, Inc.: Mothers for Justice and Equality, Inc. will use the funding to provide 200 chromebooks and monthly unlimited Wi-Fi access cards to residents of Roxbury, Mattapan, and Dorchester. The project focuses on a job readiness program and seeks to help participants take online training courses, apply for jobs and housing assistance online, obtain records to support citizenship, and related tasks.  Neighborhood of Affordable Housing: Neighborhood of Affordable Housing will use the funding to support families in the East Boston community currently living within subsidized units. The project will distribute technology equipment and internet access while creating spaces at the Neighborhood of Affordable Housing to facilitate virtual interactions with residents and program participants.   Prince Hall: Prince Hall will use the funding to implement an innovative training program designed to close the digital divide for seniors by teaching them how to effectively and efficiently utilize technology in their daily lives. The program will provide 15 hours of instruction to all participants focusing on such topics as operating a computer, connecting to the Internet, finding needed information, and using email word-processing and virtual meetings.Those who successfully complete the program will receive a Chromebook and will be assisted in getting Internet access in their homes.  St. Mark Community Education Program: St. Mark Community Education Program will use the funding to recruit and train 20 multilingual volunteers to offer at least 30 free digital skills courses in different languages to workers who are either unemployed or underemployed. The courses will be offered online and in the Boston Public Library’s neighborhood branches once they reopen.   Victory Programs: Victory Programs will use the funding to enhance an existing mobile prevention team to connect clients to services they need (e.g. health support, substance abuse) and provide other skills training (e.g. resume development), as well as provide internet access for members of the Boston Living Center when they are at the program.   X-Cel Education: X-Cel Education will use the funding to provide basic to intermediate computer skill training for older adults.  Zumix: Zumix will use the funding to connect Boston’s youth with media training. Through sequential program offerings, Zumix will help youth deepen their computer and digital storytelling skills, engage in paid production opportunities, and explore future careers in the film industry.  This announcement builds on the City of Boston’s continued efforts to expand digital access to Bostonians. Previously, Boston launched initiatives for WiFi hotspots as part of the Boston Public Library's lending program, the Wicked Free WiFi program, and protections for Net Neutrality rules.  Grant recipients in previous years include Castle Square Tenants Organization, La Alianza Hispana, Mujeres Unidas Avanzando, and South End Technology Center @ Tent City. Projects funded to date have focused on technology audiovisual training for high school students; digital literacy courses covering basic to intermediate computer skills; how to use social media; digital applications for health, online banking, and protecting oneself and family online; and creative engagement in technology and engineering for youth and adults, including those who are formerly incarcerated.